Lesser Calamint
Calamintha nepeta 'Marvelette Blue'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Calamintha nepeta 'Marvelette Blue' is a compact, herbaceous perennial with aromatic, ovate leaves and clusters of small, tubular blue flowers that attract pollinators. It forms a low-growing, bushy habit. This cultivar is prized for its vibrant blue flower spikes and its ability to tolerate drought and poor soils, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance borders and herb gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to encourage root growth.
- Ensure soil remains well-drained and slightly alkaline.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Water regularly during first growing season.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Use well-drained, slightly alkaline soil for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote blooming
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy, wet soils
- Don’t fertilize excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lesser Calamint questions
What zones can Lesser Calamint grow in?
Lesser Calamint is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lesser Calamint deer resistant?
Yes — Lesser Calamint is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lesser Calamint bloom?
Lesser Calamint typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lesser Calamint need full sun?
Lesser Calamint does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lesser Calamint drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lesser Calamint handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Lesser Calamint with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
