Clinopodium nepeta (L.) Kuntze

A plant which has underground stems or rhizomes. It grows 20-75 cm high. It forms bushes. These can become woody at the base. The stems are downy and grey-green. The leaves are hairy and grey-green. They are less than 2.5 cm long. The flowers are lilac to white. They are 12 mm long and in clusters of 15.

It is a temperate plant. They grow in cool regions and do not suit humid areas. They need well drained soil. It is resistant to drought and frost. It suits plant hardiness zones 6-10.

The leaves are used to add an aroma to mushrooms, artichokes and zucchini. They are used to flavour fish dishes. They are used in soups. The leaves are used for a herbal tea. Caution: It should not be eaten by pregnant women.

Plants can be grown from seed. They can also be grown from cuttings or division.