Calamintha nepeta spp nepeta
Calamintha nepeta spp nepata photo Suzanne Patry

Dwarf Calamint

Calamintha nepata is a member of a little known group of plants that are seldom included in garden design. Maybe it is the mention of the word mint in the name that scares gardeners away, but this well behaved plant is actually shrubby in growth habit. The foliage is fragrant and the clouds of small lilac blue flowers attract Butterflies, Honeybees and Hummingbirds. It flowers in early summer and often blooms again in late summer and fall. It is an excellent choice as an edger because of its long season of bloom.

  • Height: 25 - 30 cm (10 - 12 in)
  • Spread: 30 - 46 cm (12 - 18 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 3
  • Sun or Shade: sun
  • Bloom Time: early summer
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: lilac blue
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits
  • Nature Attraction: pollinators

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Calamintha is a very easy plant to grow and is adaptable to a wide range of conditions. It will easily tolerate poor soil and dry conditions. It can be clipped back in August to freshen the plant.

Click image for design ideas with this plant

Specials

American Perennial Plant Association Perennial of the Year 2021