Calamintha nepeta
lesser calamint
A compact, bushy perennial, to 60cm tall, with aromatic, ovate grey-green leaves. Loose clusters of tiny, up to 1cm, tubular, two-lipped white or pale lilac flowers are borne from summer into early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple White | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Purple White | Green Grey Silver | ||
Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Calamintha are pleasantly aromatic perennials with ovate leaves and loose clusters of small, 2-lipped flowers in summer and autumn in the axils of the upper leaves
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, NW Africa, N Turkey, Caucasus, Ukraine
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers a well-drained soil and flowers best when grown in a warm, open position in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back in autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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