Phlomis samia
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Phlomis samia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Pine and cedar forests, usually on volcanic soils.
Europe, Greece to Yugoslavia, to N. Africa and W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Plants have large heart-shaped leaves that overlap to make an extremely effective weed suppressing ground cover.
Ground cover: Ground Cover
How it is grown
Succeeds in most well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. Succeeds in dry soils. Requires a position sheltered from strong winds. Very hardy, tolerating temperatures down to about -15°c. A vigorous species forming large clumps of spreading stems. Very similar to P. russeliana, differing mainly in this species having pink flowers.
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: Ground Cover;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist