Giant Watermint
lycopus exaltatus
Also known as: ["Giant Watermint","High Water Plantain"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetlands and marshes, known for its aromatic foliage and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lycopus |
| Botanical Name: | Lycopus exaltatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden beds, near water features, or in containers with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to moist.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; for indoor plants, place near east-facing windows; outdoor plants benefit from afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in moist medium, keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite) or water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and place in indirect light.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare fresh soil mix, inspect roots, prune if necessary, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLycopus exaltatus is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLycopus exaltatus is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLycopus exaltatus is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lycopus exaltatus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Lycopus exaltatus grow best?
A: It thrives in wetlands, marshes, and other moist environments.
Q: Does Lycopus exaltatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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