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Lesser calamint

Calamintha nepeta

kal-ah-MIN-thah NEP-eh-tah

Lesser calamint produces fine, upright stems which are covered with small, shiny, dark green leaves, forming a little bush from 12 to 18 inches tall, and twice as wide. In late August, it produces a cloud of infinitesimal pale lavender flowers that continue blooming for up to six weeks. As the days become cooler, the color of the tiny, lipped blossoms deepens.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsA member of the mint family, it spreads, but is not invasive. Fragrant leaves.

CareSite in full sun or part shade and moist but well-drained soil.

PropagationSow seed in containers in spring, or divide in early spring.

ProblemsPowdery mildew.

  • Genus : Calamintha
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 10, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Foliage, Self Seeds
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Flower Color : Pink
  • Plant Type : Shrubs

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