Phlomis tuberosa 'Amazone' is a tuberous-rooted perennial from the mint family that brings sculptural elegance to gardens across zones 6 through 9. Native to southern Europe and Asia, this shrub grows 3 to 5 feet tall and spreads 2 to 3 feet wide, crowned with lavender-pink tubular flowers that emerge in dense whorled clusters along dark red, four-angled stems from May through July. What truly sets it apart is the show that follows: as flowers fade, ornamental seed heads develop and persist through fall and winter, extending the plant's visual interest long after bloom time ends. It thrives in full sun with moderate water and moderate maintenance, making it both striking and manageable.
Full Sun
Moderate
6-9
60in H x 36in W
—
High
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The combination of showy lavender-pink blooms arranged in intricate whorled clusters and equally ornamental seed heads that carry through the seasons gives this shrub two distinct periods of garden impact. Tuberous roots and a drought-tolerant nature mean established plants handle dry spells with aplomb, while the dark red flowering stems create striking vertical architecture even before the flowers open. Its low disease pressure and pollinator magnetism make it a practical choice for gardeners seeking structure and movement without fuss.
Phlomis tuberosa 'Amazone' excels as a hedge or structural element in the garden, where its columnar flowering stems and persistent seed heads provide vertical interest and architectural definition. The showy blooms and ornamental fruits make it equally valuable in mixed borders, where it adds both seasonal color and year-round form. Its ability to attract birds and butterflies gives it ecological value beyond aesthetics.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Cut stems back after flowering to promote additional bloom cycles and maintain a fuller shape. Leaving some stems standing through fall and winter allows the ornamental seed heads to develop and persist, providing year-round structure and winter interest. Spring pruning can remove any winter-damaged growth before new shoots emerge.
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“Phlomis tuberosa hails from the Mediterranean and Central Asian regions, where its tuberous roots and hardy constitution allowed it to thrive in variable growing conditions. The 'Amazone' cultivar represents a more refined selection within the species, developed to emphasize the plant's ornamental qualities for modern garden use. While the exact breeding history is not detailed in available records, the cultivar's existence speaks to generations of gardeners recognizing and preserving the particular beauty of this mint family member.”