Nepitella

Lesser calamint. Famous as a culinary herb in Tuscany, Italy, where its unusual minty flavor is a distinctive addition to the regional cuisine. Nepitella is a beautiful, easy to grow perennial for the herbal border forming a compact mound of shiny, green oregano-like leaves which become covered with lavender blue flowers to a height of 18 inches. Originating from Southern Europe, this plant was used medicinally during Medieval Times as a digestive aid, a de-wormer, to promote sweating, and for insomnia. The tea was a common remedy for stomach complaints. The fresh minty fragrance wafts through the garden whenever the plant is brushed and the blooms continue through most of the summer. Prefers a well drained sunny location. Perennial. Hardy to zones 5-8.