Sage-Leaf Mullein (Phlomis Tuberosa)

Sage-Leaf Mullein

Features and Characteristics

Phlomis tuberosa is a tuberous-rooted perennial of the mint family. It is native to southern Europe and Asia. Tiny, tubular, lavender-pink flowers in dense whorled clusters (verticillasters) bloom at intervals up long, columnar, 4-angled, dark red flowering stems (to 8 clusters per stem) in late spring to early summer (May – July). Flower clusters give way in summer to ornamental seed heads which remain attractive throughout fall into winter. Wrinkled, toothed, arrowhead-shaped, rough-textured, green basal leaves (to 8″ long) form a mound of foliage to 15″ tall, but the upright flower stems rise well above that foliage to 3-4′ tall.

Genus name comes from the Greek name phlomis for some plant possibly not of this genus.

Specific epithet refers to the plant’s tuberous roots.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in organically rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade. Performs well in sandy loams. Plants tolerate some dry soil conditions. Avoid wet soils.

Sage-Leaf Mullein (Phlomis Tuberosa) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Excellent vertical flowering plant for dry sunny areas. Borders. Meadows.

Sage-Leaf Mullein (Phlomis Tuberosa) Details

Common name	Sage-Leaf Mullein
Botanical name	Phlomis Tuberosa
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Lamiaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Lavender-Pink
Flowering period	May - July
Height	2 - 4 Ft.
Width	1.50 To 2 Ft.