Calamintha nepeta spp. nepeta ~ Lesser Calamint

Lesser Calamint is a compact spreading perennial with small green foliage that has a strong lemon-mint scent.  Huge amounts of tiny, white flowers bloom on spikes above the foliage in early summer until fall attracting butterflies, pollinators, and hummingbirds, and turn pale lavender as night-time temperatures drop.  Prefers sunny areas in well-drained soils.  Tolerates light afternoon shade, drought, and grows well in alkaline soils. 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.* Type:  Perennial Height:  1.5' - 2' Spread:  1.5' - 2' Spacing:  1.5’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  4 - 7 Culture:  Full Sun  Bloom Color:  White Season of Interest:  Summer, Fall MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low maintenance. Foliage may decline in hot and humid summer climates.  Cut back after flowering to tidy the pla