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Intro to the Lamiaceae Plant Family: The Mint Family

The Lamiaceae plant family, also known as the mint family, is a diverse group of flowering plants consisting mostly of herbs, ground covers and shrubs. This family is full of plants we recognise in amenity horticulture, culinary arts, and traditional medicine, such as westringia, basil and salvia.

Understanding the Lamiaceae Plant Family

Characteristics of Lamiaceae Plants

Lamiaceae plants are characterised by their square-ish stems, opposite leaves, and lip-shaped flowers.

Many members of this family are known for their aromatic properties, thanks to oil glands present in their leaves. These oils can be released when the leaves are crushed, contributing to the plants’ distinctive fragrances.

While some members like mint and lavender have a strong aroma, others, such as westringia and some salvia species, have a subtler scent.

Mint family flowers for identification
Mint family members have a square-ish stem, opposite leaves and lip-shaped flowers. Look closely at the flowers of this Moroccan mint and compare with the westringia flowers below.

Diversity within Lamiaceae

The Lamiaceae family encompasses a wide range of plant types, from culinary herbs like rosemary and thyme to ornamental shrubs like salvia and westringia, and even the timber-producing tree, teak.

This family’s members have adapted to a broad range of habitats around the world, dominating in drier parts of Australia, the Mediterranean and the Americas.

Notable Native Australian Lamiaceae Members

Plectranthus (Plectranthus spp.)

The Plectranthus genus includes a diverse range of plants, some of which are native to Australia (most notably Plectranthus Argentatus). Use them in containers, hanging baskets, or as understory ground cover.

Prostanthera (Prostanthera spp.)

Prostanthera, also known as mint bushes, are evergreen shrubs native to Australia. They’re known for their small, aromatic leaves and bell-shaped flowers that bloom in a variety of colours, depending on the variety.

Westringia

Westringia, often referred to as Australian rosemary, is a genus within the Lamiaceae family known for its hardy nature and attractive, bushy growth habit. Its small, grey-green leaves and delicate white or blue flowers make it a popular choice in amenity landscapes.

These plants respond extremely well to pruning which is why they’re a favourite for hedges in Australia. Especially lower hedges, as most westringias don’t grow as high as other native hedge plants like lilly pillies.

Notable Exotic Lamiaceae Plants

Edible Herbs

Many popular edible herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family, including mint, rosemary, basil, catnip, oregano, marjoram, lemon balm and thyme.

These herbs are cherished for their aromatic qualities and are widely used in culinary applications around the world. Their cultivation generally requires well-drained soil and a sunny location.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Beloved for its fragrant flowers and silvery foliage, lavender is a popular herb in the Lamiaceae family. Known for its calming scent, lavender is often used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and culinary applications. This sun-loving plant thrives in well-drained soil.

Lamium

Lamium, also known as dead-nettle, is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants within the Lamiaceae family. These plants are primarily grown for their attractive foliage and ability to serve as effective ground cover. Their vibrant, variegated leaves form a low, spreading mat that can outcompete even the most tenacious weeds.

Teak

Teak (Tectona grandis) is a valuable timber tree within the Lamiaceae family. Prized for its durability and water resistance, teak wood is often used in furniture making, boat building, and other construction. This is a rare example of a tree within this family; most plants have a shrubby or ground-covering habit.

Salvia

The Salvia genus, also part of the Lamiaceae family, is incredibly diverse, with species ranging from annuals to perennials, and small shrubs. Known for their vibrant flowers and attractive foliage, Salvias are a favourite among gardeners and come in just about any colour you can imagine.

Sage (S. officinalis), a popular culinary herb, is a Salvia plant. Meanwhile, S. divinorum is a traditional medicine for people in Mexico.

Lamiaceae mint family member salvia flowers
Salvia flowers are more tubular than Westringia flowers, but still share the lobed shape of fused petals

Cultivation and Care for Lamiaceae Plants

Ideal Soil and Climate Conditions

The Lamiaceae family is a versatile group of plants that can adapt to various climates and soil types. While each species has its specific preferences, most plants in this family thrive in well-drained soil and prefer sunny to partially shaded conditions. They may tolerate clay loams if there’s adequate drainage.

They’re generally hardy, with some species tolerating cooler climates while others are more suited to warmer temperatures.

Watering and Fertilising Needs

Lamiaceae plants generally have moderate watering needs. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. As a rule of thumb, allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.

This definitely depends on your plant. Mint is one of the thirstiest plants in your herb garden, but rosemary would much prefer drought to anything approaching soggy conditions.

When it comes to fertilising, these plants don’t require high levels of nutrients. A balanced, slow-release fertiliser applied in early spring should suffice for most species.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning is beneficial for Lamiaceae plants, promoting lush growth and preventing legginess.

Unlike herbs in the carrot family Apiaceae, Lamiaceae members don’t die after flowering and their flowers don’t negatively impact the flavour. They’re generally perennial herbs that will live on for years.

For herbs like basil and mint, frequent harvesting will encourage bushier growth. For shrubs like salvia, annual hard pruning can help maintain the desired size and shape. Westringias can be allowed to express their natural shape or hedge pruned into a box, mound or to conform to your walkway.

Daniel’s Wrap

Lamiaceae plants, with their diverse forms, colours, and scents, add significant aesthetic value to our gardens and landscapes. They also have remarkable utility, serving various purposes from culinary uses to medicinal applications.

These plants, with their ability to attract pollinators, contribute to biodiversity in our gardens, making them not only beautiful but ecologically valuable.

Whether you’re an experienced home gardener or a professional landscape expert, incorporating more Lamiaceae plants into your spaces can bring both visual interest and functional benefits.

With proper care and maintenance, these plants can thrive and enhance our surroundings with their unique appeal.

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The views expressed may be personal and not official policy. Plants are natural products and may die for various reasons. Ozbreed believes the information is correct at publishing but does not guarantee accuracy or accept liability for inaccuracies or photo colour discrepancies. Images are illustrative and may not reflect the actual product’s size, colour, or appearance.

All information is for general guidance and not a substitute for professional advice. Ozbreed makes no warranties, express or implied, regarding the fitness or suitability of any plant or product for a particular purpose. Plant performance may vary based on regional climate, soil type, and other conditions. Users should independently verify the suitability of plants, products, and advice, consulting local experts to determine the best choices for their location.

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Daniel is a writer and content creator for Ozbreed, one of Australia's leading native and exotic plant breeders.

Daniel has worked in various capacities within the horticulture industry. His roles have ranged from team leader at several companies, to creator of the Plants Grow Here podcast and Hort People job board, as well as his position on the National Council for the Australian Institute of Horticulture (AIH).

He's passionate about explaining how to care for different types of plants to ensure home gardeners and professional horticulturists alike can get the most out of the plant babies.

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