Purple jerusalem sage - Phlomis purpurea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Purple jerusalem sage

Purple jerusalem sage (Phlomis purpurea) is an arid-loving wildflower that has a clumping nature, making it ideal for rockeries, containers, and flower beds, especially in Mediterranean-style gardens or areas subject to drought. This plant has wooly leaves that repel deer, so it is a good species to grow in gardens that are grazed by them.

Scientific classification

Species

Purple jerusalem sage (Phlomis purpurea)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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1.2 m to 1.8 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

Pink, Purple, White

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Purple jerusalem sage

Quickly Identify Purple jerusalem sage

Robust shrub, 4-6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters) tall and wide.

Upright, woolly stems with medium gray-green leaves.

Vibrant lavender flowers in conspicuous ascending whorls.

Profuse blooms in late spring, sporadic flowering year-round.

Recommended post-blooming trim for aesthetic upkeep.

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Care Guide for Purple jerusalem sage

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Purple jerusalem sage thrives in dry conditions typical of its Mediterranean origin, requiring infrequent watering every 2-3 weeks. It prefers well-draining soil and benefits from dryness to prevent root rot. As an evergreen, monitor soil moisture throughout the year, especially in dry indoor environments.

Fertilize: For optimal growth in purple jerusalem sage, use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at the start of the growing season and every two months thereafter. Reduce application in winter and avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root damage. Proper distribution is essential to support health and flowering.

Pruning: Purple jerusalem sage features fragrant, woolly leaves and vibrant purple flowers. Prune in early spring by one-third to encourage bushier growth and prolific blooms. Remove dead stems for health, using sharp, clean tools to prevent disease transmission.

Propagation: Purple jerusalem sage, from the Lamiaceae family, features striking purple flowers and robust growth. Propagate via cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems with leaf nodes. Use well-draining soil and keep it moist. Young plants root in a few weeks and should be acclimated to outdoor conditions.

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