Tiered whorls of soft-yellow hooded flowers stack up sturdy stems above big felted leaves. The architectural dried seed heads earn their keep right through winter.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Turkish Sage
Phlomis russeliana is a moderate-growing perennial in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Yellow flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Turkish Sage
Turkish Sage suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is deer-resistant.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Turkish Sage provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Turkish Sage is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Turkish Sage after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Turkish Sage in the garden
Turkish Sage earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, cut flowers for the vase, a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Turkish Sage with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Turkish Sage
Plant Sale lists Turkish Sage as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.