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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae) (Mints) |
| Origin: Mexico (North America) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Orange |
| Bloomtime: Summer/Fall |
| Fragrant Flowers: Yes |
| Synonyms: [Satureja mexicana] |
| Height: 1-2 feet |
| Width: 2-3 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 15-20° F |
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Clinopodium mexicanum (Orange-flowered Mexican Savory) - A moderately fast low growing evergreen perennial/ subshrub growing 1 to 2 feet tall by 2 to 3 foot wide with well branched thin strong stems holding small aromatic dark-green oval shaped leaves. Masses of bright tubular 1 inch long pale orange flowers are on display at the tips of the arching stems in the summer into fall, with some bloom nearly year-round in coastal gardens. When fully open the flowers show a yellow throat with an intricate orange vein pattern. Plant in a warm spot in full to part sun in a well-drained rich soil with regular to occasional irrigation. Winter hardy to at least 20° F and possibly considerably hardier but is relatively rare in cultivation and remains untested; it has performed well in coastal California gardens and its origins suggest a wide range of climatic tolerance. It is beautiful in bloom and the leaves emit a pleasant aroma when bruised or crushed. Plant out in the garden, even in a tight spot, or as a container plant. This plant is native to the Mexican states of Hidalgo, Guerrero, Oaxaca, and Veracruz States where it is found growing from 3,300 to 8,500 feet. In Mexico it is called Toronjil de Monte (Hill Hyssop) or Toronjil de Menta” (Mint Hyssop) and has long been cultivated for use in traditional medicine to induce sleep, as well as a sedative and analgesic remedy. The name for the genus comes from the Greek words 'klino' meaning "a bed" 'podion' meaning a "little foot" referring to flower's of Clinopodium vulgare likeness to bed-castors. This plant has previously been called Satureja mexicana as a relative to the California native Yerba Buena, Satureja douglasii that is now also placed in the genus Clinopodium by some and in another genus, Micromeria, by others.
This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Clinopodium mexicanum.
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