Lesser Calamint is a compact perennial with small green foliage that smells strongly of mint.  Huge amounts of tiny, pale lavender-blue flowers bloom on spikes above the foliage in early summer until fall attract butterflies, pollinators, and hummingbirds.  Prefers sunny areas in well-drained soils.  Tolerates light afternoon shade and drought.

Catmint used to be used as a tea for its medical properties that helped relieve stomach aches and cramping, and insomnia.  Fresh leave poultices have also been used to lessen discoloration from bruises.*

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low maintenance. Foliage may decline in hot and humid summer climates.  Cut back after flowering to tidy the plant or prevent self-seeding.  Watch for powdery mildew.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Wildlife Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Native Gardens, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: False Sunflower, Daylily, Daisy

*ServeScape does not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.