Jerusalem Sage
Phlomis fruticosa
Also listed as Beloakon luteum, Phlomis angustifolia
Also known as Shrubby Jerusalem Sage, Jerusalem Lampwick
Climate Match for your location
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Jerusalem Sage is a Mediterranean shrub prized for its soft, fuzzy gray-green foliage and whorled spikes of golden-yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, it thrives in hot, dry climates and poor soils.
Why grow it
Jerusalem Sage offers reliable performance in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, making it a practical choice for xeriscaping alongside other Mediterranean species like lavender or rosemary. Its gray-green foliage provides textural contrast in mixed plantings, and the long flowering period (late spring through summer) extends pollinator resources compared to many drought-tolerant alternatives. The plant tolerates poor, rocky soils without amendment, reducing site preparation costs in difficult locations.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from occasional deep watering during establishment; relying solely on natural rainfall in the first season can result in weak root development. The plant may become leggy or sparse with age if not pruned back by one-third after flowering, a practice that encourages bushier growth but requires regular attention. In humid climates or poorly drained soils, root rot can occur despite the plant's drought tolerance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
The species itself is most commonly grown; 'Golden Splendor' is occasionally available and offers deeper golden-yellow flowers. Both maintain the same hardiness and drought tolerance characteristics.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Jerusalem Sage is a Mediterranean shrub prized for its soft, fuzzy gray-green foliage and whorled spikes of golden-yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, it thrives in hot, dry climates and poor soils.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Jerusalem Sage grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Jerusalem Sage offers reliable performance in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, making it a practical choice for xeriscaping alongside other Mediterranean species like lavender or rosemary. Its gray-green foliage provides textural contrast in mixed plantings, and the long flowering period (late spring through summer) extends pollinator resources compared to many drought-tolerant alternatives. The plant tolerates poor, rocky soils without amendment, reducing site preparation costs in difficult locations.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from occasional deep watering during establishment; relying solely on natural rainfall in the first season can result in weak root development. The plant may become leggy or sparse with age if not pruned back by one-third after flowering, a practice that encourages bushier growth but requires regular attention. In humid climates or poorly drained soils, root rot can occur despite the plant's drought tolerance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar shrubs you might consider:
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Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
The species itself is most commonly grown; 'Golden Splendor' is occasionally available and offers deeper golden-yellow flowers. Both maintain the same hardiness and drought tolerance characteristics.