1. * Willowy Monardella – Monardella linoides ssp. viminea
(mon-ar-DEL-la lie-NO-i-dees vim-IN-ee-a)
Family: Lamiaaceae (Mint Family)
Native to: SW San Diego Co. south to Baja; sandy or rocky washes to 1000', mostly in chaparral,
coastal sage scrub but also in pine forests.
herbaceous perennial
mature height: 1-2 ft.
mature width: 1-3 ft.
Drought-deciduous perennial with long narrow leaves on slender stems. Foliage gray-green, very
aromatic (minty scent). Sprawling habit, but dainty look.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms late - June to August, even to November with water. Flowers white to rose
or lavender, in dense 1 inch heads (typical for mints). Flowers in profusion over long time. Scented
flowers have a wonderful old-fashioned look.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Nice at the front of bed or near pathways where flowers and fragrance can be
enjoyed.
Fire retardant. Excellent choice for Butterfly Garden. Make tea from leaves.
dappled sun under trees or with Salvias, Penstemons and native bunchgrasses.
Nice in
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Monardellas.
Excellent butterfly habitat: butterflies hummingbirds and bees all collect nectar.
birds eat the seeds.
Attracts:
Song
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to light shade.
Sandy or rocky best; pH 6.5 to 8.0
Needs regular water to establish. Then best in Zone 2 (occasional summer water).
None.
Management:
Cut back by 1/3 after flowering to improve appearance (only if desired).
Propagation: from seed: yes, fresh seed
by divisions: yes; probably like other Mints.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 8, 11, 13, 14, 19
* CA native plant but not native to Western L.A. county
6/25/08
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