Turkish sage
A large-leaved Jerusalem sage endemic to northern Anatolia with pale yellow whorls; mainly bumblebee-visited, popular in European bee gardens.
- Nectar
- Medium
- Pollen
- Low
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Height
- 0,6-1 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Turkish sage is a Phlomis species endemic to Turkey that grows in forest clearings, scrub and on slopes in northern Anatolia. Its large, hairy, heart-shaped leaves form a broad ground cover. The pale yellow, hooded lipped flowers are arranged in tiers along the stem. The flower structure mainly suits bumblebees; honey bees visit occasionally for nectar and pollen.
Flowering
It flowers from late May to July. The dry flower heads stay on the plant all winter.
Honey and pollen
It gives no monofloral honey; its contribution is small. There are no nectar measurements specific to the species.
Note for the beekeeper
In the Netherlands, Germany and the United Kingdom it is a popular drought-tolerant, bumblebee-friendly garden plant. Its Turkish name is not established; it is referred to by the general names çalba or şalba. In its natural range it is an endemic of conservation value.