Jerusalem Sage

Phlomis fruticosa

Lamiaceae - Mint Family

Many times the description, nature, or use of a plant gives a clue as to why it received its name. Not so in the case of Jerusalem Sage. Although it has been known in western countries since the sixteenth century by the name of Jerusalem Sage, it is not a Salvia or true sage and although the crushed leaves might resemble culinary sage, they do not have the flavor, according to Jo Ann Gardner in her excellent book, "Herbs in Bloom."

General Description: It is an attractive plant growing to a height of five feet (1.5 m). It has white felty looking branches with evergreen leaves that are whitish on the underside. The showy spikes have compact whorls of bright, yellow-orange flowers which bloom June to August.

Range and Habitat: Jerusalem Sage is native to the Mediterranean area and naturalized in Europe. The plant is drought-resistant.