Category Archives: Lamiaceae

Perovskia atriplicifolia, Russian sage

Family: Lamiaceae

Description:

This classic sub-shrub has a woody base and is more or less evergreen. Reaching over 1m in height, this sage species has a fairly open form with a sprawling habit. Fragrant flowers are borne terminally with a hairy, purple calyx and blue corolla. Leaves are finely divided with teeth that have deep sinuses. New growth is whitish.

Growing conditions:

This is a low maintenance shrub that is best suited for full-sun and dry, well-drained soil. It can tolerate drought.

Suitable uses:

As a low maitenance, drought tolerant species, Perovskia atriplicifolia is ideal for a highway median. It looks good as seen from a distance.

CC Image courtesy of organprinter on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of K M on Flickr

Origanum ‘Barbarn Tingey’, round leaved oregano

Family: Lamiaceae

Description:

Origanum ‘Barbar Tingey’ is notable for a showy floral display in which attractive bracts are expanded to almost engulf the flower. These bracts transition from yellow-green to pinkish and finish as brown before dying back in the winter. This completely herbaceous low-growing species has rounded, green-gray foliage.

Growing conditions:

This species grows best in full sun with well-drained soil.

Suitable uses:

Origanum ‘Barbara Tingey’ is often used as a ground cover, but also works very well in a raised container with foliage cascading over a wall, or in an alpine rock garden. Bumble bees, a ground nesting species, love this ground clinging and long-lasting floral display.

CC Image courtesy of Ghislain118 on Wikimedia Commons

Phlomis russeliana,Turkish sage

Family: Lamiaceae

Description:

Most notable for this species is the distinctive yellow, hooded flowers arranged in whorls around a central stalk.  Leaves are coarsely textured, large and floppy. Arrangement of leaves are opposite and, like many in the mint family, decussate. This long flowering species is bee pollinated and in bloom for up to two months. After flowers have passed, the bulbous cluster of bracts persist, offering textural diversity in the landscape.

Growing conditions:

Pholmis russeliana prefers rich, well-drained soil. It is best in full sun, but can tolerate some shade.

Suitable uses:

This species can be used in a mixed shrub or perennial border.  Alternatively it can also look appropriate in mass plantings.  The large upright stalks provide both a whimsical and architectural presence, especially after blooms have faded. The long blooming period makes this an excellent addition for bees.

CC Image courtesy of Drew Avery on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of Swallowtail Garden Seeds on Flickr