Overview
Calamintha grandiflora is a perennial herb in the genus Calamintha, part of the Q53476 family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Calamintha grandiflora grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and herb gardens. It is native to S Eur. to N Iran.
About
Calamintha grandiflora is a perennial herb prized for its aromatic foliage and summer flowering. It grows to about 0.6 m and produces flowers from July to September. The plant prefers full sun in sandy or loamy, well-drained soils that may remain moist but drain freely. Fully hardy in the UK (H7), it suits rock gardens, borders and herb plots where the leaves can be appreciated up close.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clinopodium grandiflorum
About the genus
Clinopodium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae, in the subtribe Menthinae. Clinopodium belongs to a large and complex group of genera including many New World mints such as Hedeoma, Monarda, and Pycnanthemum, and this group is in turn a sister clade to Mentha.
In the garden
Calamintha grandiflora is a perennial herb native from southern Europe across to northern Iran, cultivated for its scented leaves and summer display of flowers (July to September). It typically reaches around 0.6 m and presents a compact habit useful where both foliage and flowers are wanted in a small footprint. Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot on a sandy or loamy, well-drained soil; it tolerates some moisture provided the site does not remain waterlogged. An open, full-sun aspect helps the foliage develop its aroma and keeps roots drier through the season. Calamintha grandiflora is fully hardy in the UK (H7), corresponding roughly with USDA zones 5–8, so it will survive most British winters without winter protection. Use it at the front of mixed borders, in rock or gravel beds, or in a dedicated herb garden where the scent can be enjoyed from a path or seating area. Group plants for greater impact and to concentrate the leaf fragrance; because the scent comes from the foliage, position Calamintha grandiflora where leaves will be brushed or lightly crushed to release their aroma.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Calamintha
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Calamintha grandiflora size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, borders, herb gardens
- Native to
- S Eur. to N Iran
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Calamintha grandiflora
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; can tolerate some drought once established.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Calamintha grandiflora?
Prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; can tolerate some drought once established.
Where is the best place to plant Calamintha grandiflora?
Calamintha grandiflora prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Calamintha grandiflora need?
Calamintha grandiflora grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Calamintha grandiflora?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
How big does Calamintha grandiflora grow?
Calamintha grandiflora reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Calamintha grandiflora hardy in the UK?
Calamintha grandiflora has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Calamintha grandiflora?
Seed, division.
