Peruvian mint

lepechinia meyenii

Also known as: ["Calamint","Meyer's calamint"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Lepechinia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herb native to South America, known for its fragrant leaves and culinary uses.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Lepechinia
Botanical Name: Lepechinia meyenii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny, airy spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Culinary Herb Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Cover with plastic to retain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic wrap, small pots.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Lepechinia meyenii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lepechinia meyenii can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Lepechinia meyenii may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Lepechinia meyenii due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lepechinia meyenii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for cats exposed to this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lepechinia meyenii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs exposed to this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lepechinia meyenii is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans under normal conditions. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Peruvian mint safe for pets?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Can I use Peruvian mint in cooking?

A: Yes, its leaves are used in culinary dishes for their minty flavor.

Q: Does Peruvian mint attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","culinary herb","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Coyote Mint
View
Wild Thyme
View
Licorice Mint, Sunset Hyssop
View
Hummingbird Sage
View