Turkish sage
phlomis russeliana
Also known as: ["Jerusalem sage","Russell's phlomis"]
Overview
A hardy perennial shrub with woolly leaves and yellow, tubular flowers arranged in whorls on tall stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Phlomis |
| Botanical Name: | Phlomis russeliana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9; tolerates temperatures between -20°F and 90°F; prefers cooler nights in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; softwood cuttings in summer yield best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; rooting hormone can aid success.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a healthy bud or leaf node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in extreme conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from cold drafts; move potted plants to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf drop, and reduced flowering due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; monitor for nutrient burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhlomis russeliana is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPhlomis russeliana is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPhlomis russeliana is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Turkish sage grow?
A: It typically reaches 1.5 to 2 meters in height.
Q: Does Phlomis russeliana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Turkish sage suitable for dry climates?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained, dry to moderately moist soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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