Calamint

Calamintha sp. 

Size: 1 Gallon Availability

Flower
Max size: 3′ tall x 3′ wide
Average Size: 2′ tall x 2′ wide

Sand
Sun
Moist to Dry, Very Dry
No salt tolerance

This fragrant flower blooms from late fall into winter with lavender-colored flowers. It is partially deciduous. If there are any dead areas, prune it after it’s done flowering. It is a hybrid species between the Georgia Calamint and one of the native Conradina species, which allows it to grow better in zones 8 and 9, with a compact and shrubby growth habit. It attracts many different insects and pollinators, but is mainly polinated by native bee species. Documented bees include Agapostemon splendens, Augochlorella aurata, Augochloropsis sumptuosa, Dialictus nymphalis, D. tegularis, Anthidiellum notatum rufimaculatum, A. perplexum, Dianthidium floridiense, Epeolus erigeronis, E. zonatus, Hoplitis truncata, Coelioxys germana, Lithurgus gibbosus, Megachile brevis pseudobrevis, M. exilis parexilis, M. georgica, M. petulans, M. rugifrons, M. texana, Osmia sandhouseae, Osmia sp, plus Apis mellifera (honeybee) and Bombus impatiens.

Because of its strong aroma, it makes an excellent addition to homemade potpourri, incense, or smudge bundles. Romans historically used this herb to flavor food and as medicine. The leaves have a high menthol content, which can help to provide relief for bruising and inflamed skin. The leaves were moistened and softly squeezed to help in releasing the healing substances before being applied to the skin. It can also be crushed and applied to the chest and under the nose to open airways during colds. Modern practices lean away from using calamint in cooking, as there are similar and safer alternatives, such as rosemary or basil, and some studies have found it to have toxins.