Prostranthera rotundifolia

Common Name: Round-leaf Mint-bush

Family: Lamiaceae

Origin: Australia

USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11

RHS Hardiness Rating: H4

Growth Form: Shrub

Mature Size: 3-6 ft (0.9-1.8 m) tall and wide

Growth Rate: Moderate

Foliage: Evergreen, aromatic, round to oval leaves, 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) long, dark green above, paler beneath

Flowers: Small, white, tubular flowers, borne in clusters at the ends of the branches, bloom in spring and summer

Fruit: Small, dry, brown capsules

Culture:

• Prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade
• Drought tolerant once established
• Prune after flowering to maintain shape
• Propagate by cuttings

Uses:

• Ornamental shrub for gardens and landscapes
• Can be used in containers
• The leaves can be used to make tea or as a flavoring in cooking

.

I first encountered this wonderful aromatic plant over thirty years ago while I was a student in the National Botanic Gardens, in Glasnevin, Dublin.

It is a plant for a sheltered sunny wall in cooler counties, where I grow it is in The Patio Garden close to the house where it gets afternoon sun.

The plant I have I got from my partner’s mother, she grows it in her garden next door to us, and had propagated a few plants from cuttings.

The aroma from a crushed leaf is strong, a minty menthol smell that stimulates the senses.

It is evergreen, the small slightly glaucous leaves are pleasant to look at, and in April and May it is covered in a multitude of blooms.