Jerusalem Sage
phlomis fruticosa
Also known as: ["Golden Sage","St. Basil"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with woolly leaves and yellow, hooded flowers arranged in whorls, native to the Mediterranean region.
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 fruticosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil such as a mix of cactus potting mix and sand or perlite.
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 if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries out between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; amend with grit for drainage.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle below 20°F (-6°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only once a year; use a balanced formula; dilute to half strength if using liquid fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks. Plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems. Pruning also promotes better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Prune in late winter/early spring; remove dead/damaged stems; cut back to healthy growth; clean tools between cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Repot in spring; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water after repotting; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to ensure penetration, allowing excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for organic matter if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stems may become brittle, and growth may slow or stop. Prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch. Growth may slow, and flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply but infrequently; increase air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced fertilizer; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as Phlomis is not heavy feeder. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhlomis fruticosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhlomis fruticosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhlomis fruticosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Phlomis fruticosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Phlomis fruticosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Phlomis fruticosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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