PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry conditions once established
Watering
Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zone 5; tolerates mild frost and summer heat up to 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Opposite, lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; aromatic when crushed
- Flower: Dense terminal spikes of tubular, lavender-pink or purple blooms
- Stem: Square, green to reddish stems typical of the mint family
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth and reduced flowering
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest issuesPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering period
- Cut back to 10 cm above soil in late winter to encourage dense new growth
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; leaves may be used in herbal teas in small quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental pollinator plant; leaves used for herbal teas and aromatic sachets
