Clinopodium chilense


Common name(s): Chilean mint bush


Description: semi-evergreen shrub; found on arid slopes in Central Chile. Intensely mint-scented foliage is short and narrow and the slightest disturbance will release its very intense aroma. Blooms pale lilac flowers in summer. Can be partially deciduous in cold winters.


Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental


Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below


Distribution: Central Chile

Care: no special care needed- can be pruned in spring to rejuvenate or reshape

Notes: our original stock was gifted to us by the fine folks at Cistus Design Nursery who collected it near Cañon Infernillo in Central Chile at about 5,000 ft. elevation. Syn: Satureja gilliesii