Jerusalem Sage

Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa) is a Mediterranean evergreen shrub with soft gray-green leaves and whorls of golden-yellow flowers. It forms a spreading, multi-stemmed mound that suits sunny borders and other well-drained plantings. ## Flowers and garden role North Carolina State Extension describes plants about 2 to 4 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide, flowering from late spring into summer. The hooded yellow blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; the foliage may remain evergreen in warm regions but can be deciduous in colder parts of its range. It works in borders, containers, cottage gardens, and cut-flower plantings. [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/phlomis-fruticosa/) · [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12700/phlomis-fruticosa/details) ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun for a compact habit, though partial shade is tolerated. Give it well-drained soil; the species adapts to dry through moist conditions and tolerates drought after establishment. Chalk, loam, and sandy soils are suitable. North Carolina State lists it for USDA zones 7a–10b and notes that it may grow deciduously in colder zones; hardiness and winter appearance vary with climate. ## Maintenance This is a low-maintenance shrub. Trim old stems after flowering if a tidier outline is wanted, and leave some seed heads through winter for structure. Watch for leafhoppers, a pest noted by the RHS.