Balearic Island Sage

Phlomis italica is an elegant, woolly evergreen shrub native to the Balearic Islands, offering a softer aesthetic than the more common yellow Phlomis species. It is distinguished by its upright stems and lance-shaped leaves, all of which are covered in a dense coating of fine, silvery-white hairs, giving the plant a luminous, felted appearance. In mid-summer, it produces whorls of pale pink, hooded flowers that emerge from woolly calyces at intervals along the stems. This architectural plant reaches about 60cm in height and spread, making it ideal for the middle of a drought-tolerant border or a Mediterranean-themed garden. In the UK, it is surprisingly hardy but must be planted in a sheltered, south-facing position with excellent drainage to survive sharp frosts and persistent winter wet. The silver foliage provides exceptional contrast against darker green shrubs and remains attractive throughout the winter months, provided the weather is not excessively humid.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.