Sometimes called American basil mint, it is a fragrant mint with a distinctive aroma combining sweet basil and citrusy mint. It is a vigorous, spreading perennial herb that grows well in gardens or containers and is appreciated for both its scent and culinary versatility.
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Exposure: Prefers sheltered to moderately exposed sites; reasonably wind tolerant but benefits from protection from strong, drying winds. Not particularly coastal tolerant due to sensitivity to salt-laden winds.
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Size: Typically 40–70 cm tall, spreading readily to form a patch if not contained.
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Soil: Moist, fertile, humus-rich soil; grows best where soil retains moisture but drains reasonably well.
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Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
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Flowering time: Mid to late summer (July–September).
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Uses: Culinary and medicinal herb.
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Wildlife benefits: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.
