Description
GardenAdvice Notes
Phlomis russeliana is a herbaceous perennial plant that is commonly grown for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus.
The plant has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) when fully grown. Its leaves are grey-green in color, oval-shaped, and covered in soft, velvety hairs. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems and give off a slightly aromatic scent when crushed.
Phlomis russeliana produces clusters of tubular, two-lipped flowers in early summer that are typically a yellowish-pink or mauve color. The flowers are arranged in whorls around the stems and are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Soil type-Phlomis russeliana prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and slightly alkaline, with a pH between 7.0 and 8.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as the soil is well-draining. In heavy clay soils, it is important to amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve drainage and aeration. Additionally, it prefers a soil that is not too rich in nutrients and may not perform well in overly fertile soil.
Location-Phlomis russeliana is native to Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus and is well-suited to a Mediterranean-type climate. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate heat and drought once established. In regions with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent scorching of the leaves.
In terms of location, Phlomis russeliana can be grown in a variety of settings, including rock gardens, borders, and containers. It is also well-suited to xeriscaping and is often used in water-wise landscapes. It is adaptable to different elevations, but may not perform well in extremely cold or wet conditions. Overall, Phlomis russeliana is a versatile plant that can thrive in a range of locations, as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
One common pest that can affect Phlomis russeliana is aphids, which are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant’s sap. Aphids can cause stunted growth and distortion of the leaves, as well as the spread of viral diseases. To control aphids, you can wash the plants with a strong jet of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Another potential pest is spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant’s sap and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions and can be controlled by spraying the plants with water or insecticidal soap.
Phlomis russeliana may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and can be controlled by improving air circulation around the plants and applying a fungicide if necessary. Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil and can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Overall, Phlomis russeliana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is not prone to serious pest or disease problems as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight and water.
Cutting propagation: Stem cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and take a cutting that is about 4-6 inches long, making sure to remove any lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Roots should develop in about 4-6 weeks.
Division propagation: Phlomis russeliana can also be propagated by division in early spring or fall. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system and some foliage. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Overall, Phlomis russeliana is relatively easy to propagate and can be grown from seed, cuttings, or division, depending on your preference and the resources available to you.
Pruning, cutting back and dividing-Phlomis russeliana generally requires minimal pruning or cutting back, but it can benefit from occasional maintenance to promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms.
Pruning: After the plant has finished blooming in summer, you can cut back the stems by up to one-third to promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Additionally, you can remove any dead or damaged stems at any time during the growing season to maintain the plant’s health.
Cutting back: In colder climates, you may choose to cut back the plant to the ground in late fall or early winter, as it will go dormant during the colder months. However, in warmer climates, Phlomis russeliana may remain evergreen and require less extensive cutting back.
Dividing: Phlomis russeliana can be divided every few years to rejuvenate the plant and prevent overcrowding. Dividing is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system and some foliage. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Overall, Phlomis russeliana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require extensive pruning or cutting back. Occasional deadheading and light pruning can help promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms, while dividing can be done every few years to rejuvenate the plant.
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