Contents
Description
Meehania is a small genus of perennial plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It contains only two known species, both native to eastern Asia. Meehania cordata, commonly known as the creeping mint or creeping Charlie, is the more well-known species. It is a low-growing plant that spreads by runners and forms a dense mat of foliage. The plant produces small, tubular, lavender flowers in late spring to early summer, which are attractive to bees and butterflies. Meehania longituba, the other species in the genus, is less commonly grown and has similar characteristics to its cousin.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Meehania
Appearance
Meehania cordata has heart-shaped leaves that are up to 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. The leaves are a medium green color and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant typically grows to be 4-6 inches tall and spreads up to 24 inches wide. The flowers are small and tubular, with a two-lipped corolla that is lavender in color. They appear in late spring to early summer on 6-8 inch stalks. Meehania longituba has similar characteristics but with longer, more tubular flowers.
Care Guide
Water: Meehania prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
Fertilization: Fertilize Meehania in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Meehania prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: Meehania prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun.
Hardiness Zones: Meehania is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Meehania is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also be attractive to slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage.
Habitat
Meehania is native to eastern Asia, where it can be found growing in moist, shaded areas such as woodland edges and stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Meehania be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Meehania can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.
Q: How often should Meehania be fertilized?
A: Meehania should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does Meehania attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Meehania’s small, tubular flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Meehania deer-resistant?
A: Meehania is not known to be deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in the area.
Related Plants
- Lamium
- Nepeta
- Mentha
- Salvia
- Monarda
References
- “Meehania cordata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278241&isprofile=0&pt=1>.
- “Meehania cordata.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 20 July 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/meehania-cordata>.
- “Meehania cordata | Creeping Charlie | Lamiaceae.” High Country Gardens. Accessed 20 July 2021. <https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/lamiaceae/meehania-cordata>.
