PHLOMIS. Mediterranean region to China. A large group of perennial mints, of which only a few are cultivated here. They may by herbaceous or woody-based, with low crowns of leaves, or they may be full shrubs, as in the most popular species. The leaves are highly variable in size and shape, though neatly arranged in opposing pairs. Often they are woolly. The flower stems, borne mostly in spring and summer at the shoot tips, can be quite tall. Spaced along them are tight, usually ball-like clusters of buds which open in lengthy succession into large, colorful, highly irregular flowers. Each flower has a hooded upper lip and a more open, spreading lower lip, much like some of the salvias. These are rugged and attractive plants for sunny sites. Depending on their size, they may be displayed as individual specimens or grouped in borders and mass plantings. They thrive in full exposure, with reasonably well drained soil and moderate to occasional, deep watering. The following are hardy to 0oF or less.
fruticosa. Jerusalem sage. Mediterranean area. A roughly textured but nevertheless beautiful semishrub. It grows erect to 4' or more. Stout, square stems are set with pairs of broad grey green leaves. Large two-lipped yellow flowers are borne in a series of ball shaped clusters along the upper stems. It is seldom out of bloom, particularly if cut back as each wave of flowers finally withers.
lanata. This is a charming little shrub, whose acquaintance I wish I had made long ago. It is profusely branched, nearly round and up to 2’ (or a little more?) high. The stems and lower surfaces of the ½-1" leaves are covered by yellowish tan hairs; the leaves are light green above. It flowers abundantly most of the summer and well into fall, carrying several small clusters of deep orange-gold blossoms along each stem. Probably hardy to 15oF.
purpurea. Another new acquaintance for me, and my instant favorite of the group. This is a more open shrub with 2-4’ woolly stems and long-stalked leaves up to 4" long. The leaves are somewhat grey-green and hairy above, strikingly so beneath. The 1" blossoms range from mauve to white in color; those of the current selection are of a beautiful rosy lavender. Hardy to 20oF. or less.
samia. My earlier efforts with this species were aborted by plants which refused to flower. Those of the current strain are more cooperative. It forms thick clumps of vegetative shoots, each of these consisting of a crown of broad, furry leaves, up to 10" long, lying close to the ground. In summer flowering stems rise as much as 3’ above the foliage, each carrying several dense clusters of lavender to purple flowers. 10oF. or less.