Calamint
clinopodium nepeta
Also known as: ["Calamintha nepeta","Nepeta calamintha"]
Overview
A small, aromatic herbaceous perennial native to the Mediterranean region, known for its small, pale lavender flowers and mint-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Clinopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Clinopodium nepeta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with 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 overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
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
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume significant amounts of Clinopodium nepeta. The essential oils in the plant can irritate the digestive system, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of large amounts of Clinopodium nepeta can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to its essential oil content. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicClinopodium nepeta, commonly known as Nepeta, contains essential oils that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset when ingested in significant amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calamint safe for pets?
A: Yes, Calamint is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should Calamint be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Calamint attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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