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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 2 to 4 feet
Width: 3 to 5 feet
Flower color: Bright yellow
Foliage color: Gray-green
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun
Water: Low to moderate (drought-tolerant)
Maintenance: Low; cut back stems by 1/3 after flowering; remove dead wood
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies

Shrubs

Phlomis fruticosa

Jerusalem Sage

Phlomis fruticosa, commonly known as Jerusalem Sage, is an evergreen shrub admired for its striking yellow flowers, aromatic foliage, and hardiness. Native to the Mediterranean, it thrives in dry, sunny conditions and adds texture and color to garden landscapes. Its bright yellow, tubular flowers bloom in whorls from late spring to early summer, attracting bees and butterflies, making it ideal for pollinator-friendly gardens. The gray-green, lance-shaped leaves have a soft, velvety texture and release a pleasant scent when brushed.

Light

Full sun

Water

Low to moderate (drought-tolerant)

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Mediterranean Gardens
Waterwise Gardens
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Yucca · New Zealand flax · Ice plant · Red hot poker · Crocosmias · Smoke bush

Design tip

Use Jerusalem sage in broad, informal groups to emphasize its repeated tiers of yellow flowers and create a stronger seasonal display. Allow its natural form to remain somewhat loose so the distinctive whorled flowers and soft, textured foliage retain their architectural character.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)