Mountain Monardella
monardella odoratissima
Also known as: ["Mountain Monardella","Mountain Pennyroyal"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, known for its aromatic foliage and small, tubular flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Monardella |
| Botanical Name: | Monardella odoratissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); tolerates cold but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches); allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
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
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn purple; growth slows; frost can damage tender tissues if not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in freezing temperatures; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMonardella odoratissima is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMonardella odoratissima is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMonardella odoratissima is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in culinary or medicinal applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Monardella odoratissima toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Monardella odoratissima?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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