Lamwick Plant
Phlomis lychnitis
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Phlomis lychnitis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Rocky places, garigue and open woods, mainly on calcareous soils.
S.W. Europe.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The plant is sometimes used to adulterate sage, Salvia officinale.
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a well-drained dry soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds. Plants are hardy to about -10°c. The plant spreads by means of underground suckers. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Germinates quickly. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring or autumn.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist