Status in Florida: Native and non-native species exist
•Size at Maturity: Typically grows as a low-growing perennial herb, ranging from a few inches to about 2 feet in height, depending on the species.
•Phenology: Perennial herb with aromatic foliage and small, tubular flowers that bloom in clusters from spring to fall.
•Life Cycle: Perennial
•Bloom Season: Spring to fall, depending on the species
•Deciduous, Dioecious, Evergreen: Evergreen
•Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
•Soil Texture: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerant of various soil types
•Soil pH: Tolerant of a wide range, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
•Moisture Requirements: Prefers moderately moist to dry soil, depending on the species; drought-tolerant once established
•Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low tolerance
•Recommended Landscape Uses: Borders, rock gardens, herb gardens, container gardens
•Maintenance Tips: Low to moderate maintenance; prune back after flowering to promote bushiness and prevent self-seeding; may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer
•Considerations: Some species of Calamint can self-seed and become invasive in favorable conditions, while others are well-behaved garden plants.
•Deer and/or Rabbit Resistance: Moderately resistant; typically not preferred by deer or rabbits
•Edible: Leaves and flowers are edible and can be used as a culinary herb to flavor dishes, teas, or garnishes; flavor is similar to a cross between mint and oregano.
•Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for various purposes, including as a digestive aid and to relieve coughs and colds.
•Toxicity to Pets: Not known to be toxic to pets, but ingestion of large quantities of plant material may cause gastrointestinal upset.
•Florida Native Companion Plant: Several species of Calamintha are native to Florida, including Calamintha ashei (Basil Bee Balm), Calamintha dentata (Toothed Calamintha), and Calamintha georgiana (Georgia Calamintha).
•Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects; provides habitat and food for various insects and birds.
•Caterpillar Host Plant: Some species of Calamint may serve as host plants for certain butterfly species, but it varies depending on the species.