Kashmir Sage

A sophisticated relative of the more common Jerusalem Sage, Phlomis cachmeriana is a robust herbaceous perennial that excels in the UK's sunny borders. It forms a handsome mound of large, heart-shaped leaves that are covered in a dense, woolly grey pubescence, providing excellent silver foliage interest even when not in bloom. During mid-summer, it produces impressive upright stems topped with whorls of hooded, lilac-pink flowers. These architectural seed heads persist long into the winter, providing structural interest and food for birds. In the UK, it thrives in well-drained soil and a sheltered, sunny spot. While it is hardy in most parts of the country, it dislikes excessive winter wet. It is a fantastic plant for a Mediterranean-style gravel garden or a drought-tolerant perennial border, pairing beautifully with ornamental grasses and deep purple salvias. It requires minimal maintenance, mostly involving the tidying of spent foliage in early spring.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.