Garden

Phlomis russeliana

A perennial with textured leaves and stacked whorls of soft yellow flowers.

Care notes by theboxerge Updated October 15, 2026

About this plant

Turkish sage forms a broad leafy clump with tiers of soft yellow flowers on sturdy stems. It is useful when a border needs a strong shape as well as colour, but its spreading base needs more space than the flower stems suggest.

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun preferred; partial shade is tolerated.
Watering: Water during establishment; inspect the root zone during prolonged dry weather.
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil.

Plan your care

Plant with enough separation for the basal leaves to expand without covering smaller neighbours. The foliage and upright stems can form a repeated structural element through a border.

Review the clump in spring. Remove worn growth as new shoots develop; divide an overcrowded established clump if more space is needed. Assess the ground before adding water to drooping leaves, especially after a wet spell.

Growing tips

Dry flower stems can be retained for structure if they remain sound. Remove them when they collapse or obstruct emerging shoots rather than following a rigid calendar.