289B-2-Mentha-laxiflora-fl-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Mentha laxiflora

Forest Mint

Open, spreading perennial herb with erect hairy stems, often suckering.

Additional information

  • FamilyLamiaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size15-40 cm x 1 m
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesAromatic, lance-shaped leaves with scattered hairs and bluntly toothed margins, 10-80 mm x 5-30 mm.
  • Flower colourMauve-pink to white
  • Flowering timeSeptember to March
  • FlowersLoose axillary clusters of 4-8 lobed flowers on short stalks.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsDamp soils in mountain forests. Dappled and full shade.
  • Garden useAn aromatic plant for moist areas and planted amongst ferns.
  • Commercially availableSpecialist Australian plant nursery
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
  • Aboriginal Use Medicine - leaves
  • Related speciesMentha australis occurs in moist areas along watercourses. It is distinguished by its soft, sprawling habit and purplish branchlets. Leaves are smaller and tubular flowers are in dense clusters.
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

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