1. * Mountain Monardella – Monardella odoratissima
(mon-ar-DELL-uh oh-dor-uh-TISS-ee-muh)
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Native to: Mountains of central & N. CA including the Western Sierras & locally in the San Gabriels;
Sin wet or dry, rocky openings in Sagebrush scrub, montane forest from 2000-11,000' elevation.
perennial/sub-shrub
mature height: 1-3 ft. mature width: 2-3 ft.
A variable species with many subspecies across its range. Gray-green to medium green mounded
perennial with erect stems, woody at very bottom. Leaves simple, paired, highly aromatic with
minty fragrance. Plants may be mat-like and low or more shrubby. Evergreen.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in late spring to summer (June to July, even Aug.). Flowers are typical for
Mint family – small flowers in ball-like whorls at the top of stems. Flowers are pale pink or lavender
(except ssp. pallida which has white flowers). Flowers are particularly large, numerous and showy
compared to others in this family.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: One of the prettiest Monardellas. Excellent choice for the butterfly garden.
Minty fragrance is welcome in the scented garden – and also as an herbal tea. Lovely in containers,
where it may drape down the sides. Good for bordering lawns – can take a little extra moisture – or
for rain gardens/vegetated swales. Very versatile; good under trees. Best at higher elevations.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Mints.
Attracts: A range of butterflies with its sweet nectar.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Does best in part-shade in our area; dappled shade under trees is excellent.
Well-drained – does well in sandy soils; any local pH
Adaptable – Zone 2 is best, but OK with 2-3 in well-drained soils.
Fine with organic amendments, ½ strength fertilizer.
Organic mulch recommended.
Management:
Prune back lightly in fall. Deadhead to improve appearance.
Propagation: from seed: yes; follow instructions from source
by cuttings: in summer
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 6, 8, 11, 13, 14, 24, 28
3/29/11
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