Jerusalem Sage
phlomis herba-venti
Also known as: ["Lion’s Tail","St. Clement’s Fleece"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its woolly leaves and yellow, hooded flowers arranged in whorls.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Phlomis |
| Botanical Name: | Phlomis herba-venti |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
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; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
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 or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and partially shaded environment.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–6 weeks; plants may take 3–6 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter increase).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow if watered inadequately.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade if possible; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhlomis herba-venti is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds known to be harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhlomis herba-venti is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhlomis herba-venti is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phlomis herba-venti toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Phlomis herba-venti?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Jerusalem Sage attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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