Curlyleaf monardella (Monardella undulata)

Also known as: San luis obispo monardella

The plant in question appears to be the curlyleaf monardella. This plant features wavy-edged leaves reminiscent of ocean waves and is native to chaparral habitats. It prefers well-drained soils and produces clusters of purple flowers on thin stems. These blooms emit a mild fragrance that attracts pollinators. Adapted to dry climates, curlyleaf monardella flourishes in sunny conditions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Curlyleaf monardella

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 - 50 cm

Spread

20 - 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 - 2 cm

Flower Color

Pink to purple

Images of Curlyleaf monardella

Quickly Identify Curlyleaf monardella

Monardella undulata can be identified by its undulating (wavy) leaves, aromatic scent when crushed, and its tubular, pink to purple flowers.

Scientific Classification of Curlyleaf monardella

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Coyote mintrg

Species

Curlyleaf monardella

Planting and Growing of Curlyleaf monardella

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

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 Curlyleaf monardella?

Monardella undulata requires a moderate amount of water, around 250 ml per watering session. This ensures the soil is moist but not soggy, mimicking its natural habitat which has periodic rains but well-draining soil. Ensure the top inch of soil is dry between waterings.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Curlyleaf monardella? ›

What should I do if my Curlyleaf monardella is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Curlyleaf monardella? ›

How to save an overwatered Curlyleaf monardella? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Curlyleaf monardella?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Monardella undulata flourishes in full sun or partial sun, receiving 6 to 8 hours of light. This range supports optimal photosynthesis, ensuring vibrant blooms and strong plant structure.

What amount of sunlight does Monardella undulata prefer? ›

How can I achieve the ideal lighting conditions for Monardella undulata? ›

What benefits does Monardella undulata experience when exposed to ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Curlyleaf monardella?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

Monardella undulata thrives best in a temperature range of 65°F to 75°F, which allows optimal growth and flower production. Maintaining temperatures within this range supports strong root development and a healthy, vigorous plant.

What Soil is Best for Curlyleaf monardella?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Sand soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Monardella undulata thrives in soil that drains well. This helps prevent root rot, a common problem with waterlogged conditions, and ensures healthy plant growth. For optimal growth, Monardella undulata prefers soil that is rich in organic matter. This ensures that the plant receives a balanced supply of essential nutrients. A slightly alkaline soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for Monardella undulata. This pH range allows for efficient nutrient uptake, leading to robust growth and vibrant bloom.

How to Fertilize Curlyleaf monardella?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

The ideal amount of fertilizer for Monardella undulata is about half the recommended strength on the fertilizer package. Applying a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer ensures that all essential nutrients are provided without overwhelming the plant. Make sure not to exceed this amount to prevent any harm to the roots and foliage.

How to Prune Curlyleaf monardella?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by identifying dead or unhealthy stems and trim them at the base. Next, focus on shaping the plant by cutting back straggly growth to maintain a compact form. Use clean, sharp shears to make precise cuts just above a leaf node, which encourages new growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Curlyleaf monardella plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring, Early summer

Start by collecting seeds from an established Monardella undulata plant. Clean and dry the seeds before sowing them in a tray filled with a seed-starting mix. Gently press the seeds into the soil without burying them too deep, to ensure good sunlight exposure.

Select healthy stems from the existing plant and cut a section about 3-5 inches long. Remove the lower leaves to expose nodes and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development before planting in a well-draining medium.

Once seeds or cuttings are planted, mist them lightly with water to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place the containers in a location that gets indirect sunlight and maintains warm temperatures for optimal growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Curlyleaf monardella plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

For Monardella undulata, repotting is ideal when you notice the roots growing through drainage holes or the plant becoming root-bound. Another sign is the plant's growth slowing down despite regular care. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to repot as the plant is either emerging from dormancy or preparing for it.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can be harmful to Monardella undulata. A pot made from breathable materials like terracotta can help in maintaining proper soil moisture levels.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that can mimic the plant's natural habitat. This type of soil prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape, while retaining enough moisture and nutrients to support the plant's growth. A mix with perlite or sand is ideal.