Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Out of season
Phlomis russeliana
Turkish sage
A plant with personality, Phlomis russeliana, or Turkish sage, is the kind of perennial that knows how to make an entrance—and a lasting impression. With its bold rosettes of large, soft, heart-shaped leaves and striking tiers of pale yellow flowers, it adds structure and texture to borders like few others can. The blooms of Phlomis russeliana appear in early summer, forming whorls along sturdy stems, and when the flowers fade, the architectural seed heads take centre stage, adding drama well into winter. This long-season interest makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance and naturalistic planting schemes.
Beyond its good looks, Phlomis russeliana is a tough, drought-tolerant performer that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun but is equally happy in light shade. Its nectar-rich flowers are a hit with pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies throughout the season. Even in the depths of winter, its dried seed heads stand tall, offering a sculptural element to the frosty landscape. Whether you’re after a wildlife-friendly addition or an effortlessly stylish border plant, Phlomis russeliana is a choice you won’t regret. It’s no surprise that this garden favourite has been recognised with the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
-
Phlomis russeliana
syn. Phlomis samia 'Boiss' - Flower colour
- Yellow
- Established height
- 70cm-1m
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 10 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- Yes
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Clay
Stony
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Wildlife gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Good for cutting
Pollinator-friendly
Fragrant
RHS Recommended
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed peat-free
Drought tolerant
Low maintenance
Attracts wildlife
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Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
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From cultivation to packaging and delivery, we are always looking for ways to lessen our environmental impact.
Growing together
Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.
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Chosen to thrive
Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
