Calamintha 'Montrose White' is a compact long blooming perennial known for its profuse display of tiny white flowers and aromatic minty scented foliage. The plant forms a tidy bushy mound that remains attractive throughout the growing season and is remarkably resilient during heat and drought. Its fine texture and gentle movement make it a subtle standout in perennial beds and pollinator gardens. Leaves release a pleasant fragrance when brushed, adding sensory appeal to pathways or garden edges.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to frost
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, moderately fertile soils
Watering Needs: Low once established; tolerates dry conditions
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed due to aromatic foliage
Native Status
This plant is a cultivated hybrid selection, derived in part from species native to Europe. It is not native to North America but is widely grown for its garden value and wildlife benefits.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Visited frequently by small butterflies such as Pearl Crescent, Gray Hairstreak, and Eastern Tailed Blue for its accessible nectar.
Bees
- Extremely attractive to honeybees, bumblebees, and a variety of native solitary bees including leafcutter and sweat bees.
Hoverflies
- Draws beneficial hoverflies, which aid in pollination and help control aphids in surrounding plantings.
Moths
- Evening and night flying moths such as the Celery Looper and Common Gray visit late in the day for nectar, enhancing nocturnal garden activity.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to form mounded, continuous drifts or informal edging.
Landscape Placement:
- Best used in herb gardens, pollinator borders, along walkways, or interplanted with ornamental grasses and low shrubs. Also excellent in containers where fragrance and extended bloom can be appreciated up close.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Shares a preference for dry soil and sun while offering fragrant foliage and seasonal blooms.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds height, color, and structural contrast while enhancing pollinator diversity.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Soft yellow daisy like blooms offer a pastel palette and long flowering period to match Calamintha.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Its upright spikes and rich color contrast elegantly with Calamintha’s airy form and white flowers.
- Sedum 'Autumn Fire' - Upright and late blooming, it pairs well with the fine texture and persistent bloom of Calamintha while supporting fall pollinators.