Lesser calamint (Clinopodium nepeta)

Also known as: Mill mountain, Nepitella, Field balm, Mountain mint

Lesser calamint (Clinopodium nepeta) is a perennial shrub in the mint family. Its leaves resemble those of oregano more than typical mint leaves, and it has a scent that is a mix of mint and oregano. The plant produces lavender-pink flowers that are particularly appealing to bees and butterflies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Lesser calamint

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

46 cm

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green Gray Silver

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Lesser calamint

Quickly Identify Lesser calamint

Fragrant ovate leaves, gray-green with velvety texture, emit minty-lemon scent when crushed.

Tubular flowers in white, pink, lavender clusters bloom from late summer to autumn.

Two-lipped delicate flowers in white, pink, lavender attract pollinators with a pleasant fragrance.

Upright leafy stems grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall, adorned with colorful blossoms.

Pinnate vein pattern and slightly serrated margins on 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) ovate leaves.

Scientific Classification of Lesser calamint

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Clinopodium

Species

Lesser calamint

Planting and Growing of Lesser calamint

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Lesser calamint?

Clinopodium nepeta prefers to be moderately watered. It should be kept consistently moist, meaning the top 2 inches of soil should dry out slightly before the next watering. The 250 ml water amount is enough to moisten the soil without causing waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Lesser calamint? ›

What should I do if my Lesser calamint is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Lesser calamint? ›

How to save an overwatered Lesser calamint? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Lesser calamint?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours minimum

A location offering partial to full sun is ideal for Clinopodium nepeta, promoting lush, bushy growth and maximizing its fragrant properties, vital for aesthetics and appeal.

How much sunlight is ideal for Clinopodium nepeta? ›

What solutions are there to achieve ideal light? ›

What benefits arise from ideal lighting for Clinopodium nepeta? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Lesser calamint?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth, Clinopodium nepeta thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This range supports robust metabolic activity and proper physiological functions, ensuring the plant maintains healthy growth and development. Keeping the temperature within this range minimizes stress, promoting the best conditions for flowering and vegetative growth.

What Soil is Best for Lesser calamint?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Clinopodium nepeta thrives in well-drained soil, as it prevents waterlogging. Proper drainage is crucial for this plant to avoid root rot and promotes healthy root growth. The plant prefers soil with moderate fertility, ensuring there are enough nutrients to support its growth without overwhelming it. This balance helps in maintaining a robust plant structure. A soil pH of between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal, facilitating optimal nutrient uptake, which translates to healthier foliage and blooms.

How to Fertilize Lesser calamint?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Clinopodium nepeta typically requires a balanced approach to fertilization. When it comes to liquid fertilizer, a dilution of around 50% to 75% of the standard recommendation is usually sufficient. For slow-release granules, one should aim for about 1 to 2 tablespoons per square foot, depending on soil conditions and plant vigor.

How to Prune Lesser calamint?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead or diseased stems to prevent the spread of infection. Cut these sections back to healthy, green growth, ensuring to dispose of the cuttings properly. Trim back long or uneven growth to maintain a nice, rounded shape. This not only helps the plant grow more evenly but also encourages the development of a robust and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Regularly pinch off spent flowers and trim back the tips of the stems. This will promote bushier growth and more blooms. Ensure that when you prune, you are cutting just above a leaf node, which is where new growth will sprout. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Lesser calamint plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by collecting seeds from the pods once they have matured but before they have dispersed. Sow them in a seedling tray with a fine potting mix, keeping them warm and moist until germination occurs.

Select healthy stems and use sterilized shears to cut below a node. Remove the lower leaves and place the cuttings in water or a moist potting medium. Ensure high humidity and indirect light for successful rooting.

Carefully lift the whole plant from the ground or pot. Gently tease apart the roots to separate sections with their own stems and roots. Replant each division promptly, watering it and placing it in a suitable location.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Lesser calamint plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Clinopodium nepeta when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes or when the growth seems stunted. This indicates that the plant has outgrown its pot and needs more space to flourish.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot provides the roots with enough space to grow without overwhelming the plant.

Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and promote healthy root development. Perlite or sand can be added to improve aeration.