Species

Clinopodium georgianumGeorgia Calamint

1 other cultivar

‘Cleburne’Georgia Savory 'Cleburne'

perennial

Georgia Wild Basil

Clinopodium georgianum 'Barbour Belle'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clinopodium georgianum, known as Georgian basil, is a low-growing perennial herb with aromatic, oval green leaves and clusters of small, tubular, pale purple to white flowers that attract pollinators.

This cultivar, Barbour Belle, is distinguished by its particularly dense foliage and compact growth habit, making it an excellent ground cover and aromatic herb for culinary and ornamental use.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides aromatic foliage and attractive groundcover in sunny borders.

Drought-tolerant and deer resistant, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Supports pollinators like insects and butterflies.

SpeciesClinopodium georgianumGeorgia Calamint

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

moderate

Humidity

average

Lifespan

perennial

Native To

Southeastern US

Toxicity

non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in spring
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Provide full sun for optimal growth
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Pinch back to encourage bushiness
Mulch around base to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately during dry spells 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Use heavy, clay soil without amendments ❌
Allow soil to stay soggy ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Harvest
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Scented herb borderRock garden accentDrought-tolerant groundcover

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary SalviaThyme Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Georgia Wild Basil questions

What zones can Georgia Wild Basil grow in?

Georgia Wild Basil is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Georgia Wild Basil deer resistant?

Yes — Georgia Wild Basil is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Georgia Wild Basil bloom?

Georgia Wild Basil typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Georgia Wild Basil need full sun?

Georgia Wild Basil does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Georgia Wild Basil drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Georgia Wild Basil handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.