Contents
1. Description
Monardella Nana, commonly known as ‘pygmy coyote mint’ or ‘dwarf monardella,’ is a small but hardy herbaceous perennial plant. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to California and Oregon in the United States. It has a low-growing, mat-like habit and produces dense clusters of small, pinkish-purple flowers in the summer. The plant is known for its pleasant fragrance and is a favorite of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Monardella |
| Species | nana |
3. Appearance
Monardella Nana has a low-growing, mat-like habit and typically reaches a height of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) and a spread of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm). It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant produces dense clusters of small, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a pleasant fragrance. The plant is known for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
4. Care Guide
Water: Monardella Nana prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant.Soil: Monardella Nana prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does not do well in heavy clay soil.Sunlight: Monardella Nana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: Monardella Nana is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Monardella Nana is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. In addition, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of pest infestation, such as aphids or spider mites, and take appropriate measures to control them.
6. Habitat
Monardella Nana is native to California and Oregon in the United States. It is typically found in a variety of habitats, including coastal scrub, chaparral, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types. The plant is known for its ability to attract pollinators and is often used in gardens and landscaping.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Monardella Nana a good plant for attracting pollinators?A: Yes, Monardella Nana is known for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Q: What is the ideal soil type for Monardella Nana?A: Monardella Nana prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does not do well in heavy clay soil.Q: How often should Monardella Nana be watered?A: Monardella Nana prefers moderate watering and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Monardella Nana?A: Monardella Nana is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
8. Related Plants
– Monardella odoratissima (Mountain Coyote Mint)- Monardella villosa (Coyote Mint)- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot)- Salvia spathacea (Hummingbird Sage)
9. References
– “Monardella nana.” Calflora. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=6805.- “Monardella nana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MONA19.
