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Herbaceous Perennial

Calamintha nepeta subsp. nepeta
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

lesser calamint

A compact, bushy semi-evergreen perennial, to 30cm tall, with aromatic, ovate grey-green leaves. Loose clusters of tiny, up to 1cm, tubular, two-lipped white flowers are borne from summer into early autumn

Synonyms
Calamintha thessala
Calamintha nepetoides

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn White Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
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
N Africa, W Asia & Europe

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
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
Pruning

Cut back in autumn

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

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