Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa): when and how to prune

Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa): when to prune it?

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In April, cut off the old flower stems and frosted tips. After flowering, in August, you can trim it lightly to keep it compact.

What else to prune in those months? April · August

Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa): how to prune it?

1. In April, cut the old flower stems back to just above a pair of leaves or new shoots.
2. At the same time, shorten the whole shrub by about a third so it stays compact and full.
3. Do not cut into old, bare wood: it is slow to regrow from there.
4. If you do not want seed heads in winter, cut off the faded stems in August.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in April and August can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa) flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Tuberous Jerusalem sage
• Turkish sage (Phlomis russeliana)
• Blackcurrant
• Blackthorn
• Bluebeard
• Box (buxus)

Plant profile: Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa) · Pruning calendar and basic rules