The Proteaceae family gains its name from the Southern African protea plant, but don’t be fooled.
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.
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.
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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