Coyote Mint, Robust coyote mint, San Luis Obispo coyote mint
Monardella villosa
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Monardella villosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Dry rocky or gravelly places below 900 metres in scrub and pine forests.
South-western N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The fresh or dried aromatic leaves and flower heads are steeped in cold water (but should not be boiled) to make a refreshing clear tea. It has a sweet spicy aroma and a slightly bitter mint-like flavour.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 1
An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of stomach aches.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a moist but well-drained sandy soil. Requires a sunny position. Strongly resents winter wet. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring. Large divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer. Cuttings of semi-ripe shoots, July in a frame.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist