Common calamint

clinopodium vulgare

Also known as: ["Calamintha vulgaria","Satureja vulgaris"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Clinopodium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family, known for its aromatic foliage and small, lavender-pink flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Clinopodium
Botanical Name: Clinopodium vulgare

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • 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: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • 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 sun but prefers filtered light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near east or west-facing windows; outdoors, provide partial shade.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; avoid intense midday sun; adjust light based on season.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility

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 cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).

Protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care for seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot, ensuring good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base, targeting the root zone until water drains from the bottom. Ensure excess water exits the pot to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or 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 burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

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

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Clinopodium vulgare can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Clinopodium vulgare can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting in Clinopodium vulgare is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and fungal pathogens, leading to decay and plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Clinopodium vulgare is not considered toxic to cats. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets for any unusual reactions, though adverse effects are unlikely.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Clinopodium vulgare is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets for any unusual reactions, though adverse effects are unlikely.
Humans
Non-toxic

Clinopodium vulgare, commonly known as wild basil or common calamint, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in traditional herbal remedies and culinary applications.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally safe, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Clinopodium vulgare edible?

A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in teas and culinary dishes for their minty flavor.

Q: Does Clinopodium vulgare attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: How should Clinopodium vulgare be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.

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