Photo: Le.Loup.Gris, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Tuberous Jerusalem sage: when and how to prune
Phlomis tuberosa
Tuberous Jerusalem sage is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Tuberous Jerusalem sage: when to prune it?
In March, before the new shoots appear: cut away last year’s old stems then.
What else to prune in those months? March
Tuberous Jerusalem sage: how to prune it?
- Cut the dead stems down in March to a few centimetres above the ground.
- After flowering, cut off the faded whorls if you do not want seedlings.
- Remove withered leaves at the base so air can move through the clump.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Tuberous Jerusalem sage flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Do not cut back too early in autumn: the seedheads look good in winter and the stems shelter insects.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Tuberous Jerusalem sage · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.