Phlomis russeliana
An outstanding groundcover forming lush gray-green foliage from crowns that expand via short rhizomes. The dense patches effectively suppress weeds. Yellow flowers arranged in whorls and layers develop from tightly packed green buds that open sequentially, drying in place when finished. The whorls persist through summer and autumn, turning tan.
Remarkably persistent through winter with whorls remaining intact through snow, rain, and storms. One of few plants maintaining structure all winter. Native to Turkish clearings and deciduous woodland edges. RHS Award of Garden Merit and Great Plant Pick. Excellent for banks with moisture-retentive soil.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average
Soil: moisture-retentive garden soil
Hardiness zone: 6
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 120
Spread (cm): 100
Habit: spreading groundcover
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: June–July
Seasonal interest: summer bloom; tan whorls through fall; winter structure
Foliage: gray green
Flower: yellow
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: yes
Habitat: banks; groundcover; sunny moist sites
Features: excellent groundcover; gray-green foliage; rhizomatous spread; exceptional winter structure; weed-suppressing; yellow whorls
Notes: spreads by short rhizomes; exceptional winter structure; AGM; GPP; native to Turkey