Common Name: |
Lesser Calamint |
Other Names: |
Nepitella |
Botanical Name: |
Calamintha nepeta syn. C. nepetoides |
Genus: |
Calamintha |
Family: |
Lamiaceae |
Cultivation: |
Well-drained to dry, neutral to alkaline soil in sun. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown under cover in spring or autumn; by softwood cuttings in early summer; by division in spring. |
Harvest: |
Flowering plants and leaves are cut in summer and used fresh, or dried for infusions. |
Native Location: |
Europe, S Russia, N Africa, Iran. |
Height: |
45cm (18in) |
Width: |
50-75cm (20-30in) |
Variations: |
Subsp. nepeta Is larger in all its parts Height: 45-60cm (18-24in) Width: 60-90cm (24-36in)
Subsp. nepeta 'Blue Cloud' Has blue flowers Height: 45-60cm (18-24in) Width: 60-90cm (24-36in) |
Hardiness: |
Z5-10 |
Parts Used: |
Whole plant |
Properties: |
An aromatic herb that acts as a nerve tonic, increases perspiration, stimulates the uterus, and relieves indigestion. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for indigestion, nervous tension, depression, insomnia, feverish colds, and painful menstruation. Not given to pregnant women. |
Culinary Uses: |
Leaves can be used for flavoring; they are similar in aroma to those of common calamint, but more pungent. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 149
|