Alpine Calamint
Acinos alpinus

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Acinos alpinus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Height (m): 0.5

Where it is found

Dry sunny habitats in mountains and rocky places.

C. and S. Europe

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The leaves are used as a flavouring in cooked dishes and also as a tea substitute.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Diaphoretic, febrifuge.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in almost any well-drained soil, doing well in a hot dry soil.

Propagating it: Seed - sow early spring in a cold frame. If you have sufficient seed then you could try sowing in situ in April or May. Germination should take place within a month. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring. Basal cuttings in late spring.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Calamintha alpinus. Satureia orontia.