Also known as Calamint · Field Balm · Field Calamint
Clinopodium nepeta, or Lesser Calamint, is a fragrant perennial herb. It has pale lavender to white flowers and aromatic foliage, attracting pollinators. It thrives in fu
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
70% intensity
Moderate, allow soil to dry between waterings.
50% intensity
Well-drained, average to poor, sandy or loamy soil.
50% intensity
Prefers 15-25 °C, hardy in temperate climates.
60% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low requirement, may benefit from light spring feeding.
20% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Leaves are edible and used for culinary purposes.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when establishing. Once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant and prefers soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly in winter during dormancy.
Prune back spent flower stalks to encourage a bushier habit and prevent excessive self-seeding. A hard cut back in late autumn or early spring can rejuvenate the plant.
Pinching back young shoots can also promote branching and denser growth.
Easily propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division. Seeds can be sown directly in spring or autumn. Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer root readily.
Division of mature clumps in spring or autumn is also a simple method.
For container-grown plants, repot every 1-2 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. This helps to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lesser Calamint (Clinopodium nepeta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Clinopodium |
| Species | Clinopodium nepeta |
Similar in genus Clinopodium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
