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Description
Monardella Odoratissima Subsp. Glauca, commonly known as Mountain Coyote Mint, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in California and Nevada. The plant has a strong minty fragrance and is often used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Monardella |
Appearance
The Mountain Coyote Mint has a compact growth habit and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has small, round leaves that are gray-green in color with a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant produces vibrant purple or pink flowers that bloom in early summer and last until fall. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Mountain Coyote Mint is a low maintenance plant that can thrive in a range of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought tolerant and only needs to be watered occasionally during extended dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done with a general-purpose fertilizer in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests and Diseases
The Mountain Coyote Mint is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. In addition, spider mites and aphids can infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Mountain Coyote Mint is native to dry, rocky slopes and canyons in the southwestern United States. It is often found growing in chaparral and sagebrush habitats at elevations between 2,000-8,000 feet. The plant is highly adapted to drought and can survive in harsh conditions with little water.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Mountain Coyote Mint deer resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer resistant due to its strong fragrance.
Q: Can the Mountain Coyote Mint be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have adequate drainage and are watered regularly.
Q: Does the Mountain Coyote Mint attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant is highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the Mountain Coyote Mint be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant can be used to add a minty flavor to teas, salads, and other dishes.
Related Plants
- Monardella Villosa
- Monardella Lanceolata
- Monardella Macrantha
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/monodo/all.html
- https://calscape.org/Monardella-odoratissima-subsp-gauca-(Mountain-Coyote-Mint)?srchcr=sc60c0bf8fe5ff2
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MOODG
