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Herbaceous Perennial

Phlomoides tuberosa
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

sage-leaf mullein

A clump-forming perennial with deeply veined and sharply serrated, dark green arrow-shaped basal leaves. Tall, upright, dark purple, leafy stems bear clusters of purple or pink flowers in mid and late summer

Synonyms
Phlomis tuberosa
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Purple Pink Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, reliably well-drained soil in full sun; will tolerate partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring. Propagate by seed sown at 13-18°C in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 8 or pruning group 9

Pests

Leafhoppers may be a problem

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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