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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 36–48 inches
Width: 48–60 inches
Flower color: Pale yellow tubular flowers in whorls, arranged in dense, ball-like clusters
Foliage color: Gray-green, velvety leaves with a rough texture and aromatic scent when crushed
Bloom time: Late spring to early autumn
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Medium; drought-tolerant once established
Maintenance: Low; prune back spent flowers to encourage rebloom; remove dead foliage in early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 5–9
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds; deer-resistant

Perennials

Phlomis russeliana

Turkish Sage

Phlomis russeliana is a perennial plant native to Turkey and Syria. It blooms profusely from early to late summer, producing clusters of pale yellow, hooded flowers that form distinctive whorls along upright stems. These floral arrangements create a tiered effect, adding architectural interest to the garden. The plant's aromatic, heart-shaped leaves are gray-green and remain evergreen, providing year-round foliage.

Beyond its ornamental appeal, Phlomis russeliana offers practical benefits.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Medium; drought-tolerant once established

Bloom time

Late spring to early autumn

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Bird Gardens
Waterwise Gardens

Companion plants

Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.