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Carol Cloud Bailey
Lamiaceae
Mentha pulegium
Pennyroyal
This aromatic member of the mint family has long been known as fleabane because the its oils repel these age-old pests. It is a species native to the Old World from Europe to Iran where it grows in a wide range of conditions. It is a low-growing, spreading perennial with soft light-green leaves that are slightly hairy and serrated. When crushed they emit a peppermint-like fragrance. The plant is vigorous and once established may naturalize where conditions are right.
Pennyroyal blooms in summer with upright stalks bearing whorls of tubular, lilac-blue flowers. It thrives in full sun or part shade where summers are long, hot and dry. The soil should be well-drained but high fertility is not essential. Pennyroyal is attractive in an herb garden and also serve well in sheltered spots of a cottage garden. Because it is not edible nor particularly attractive, this plant is commonly found in rural homesites due to its value as a natural pesticide. Centuries ago in England, fresh cut sprigs were scattered about the floor of heavily used rooms to cloak odors and drive out vermin. They can be used the same way in pet beds where they discourage fleas and ticks naturally.
12 - 2
7 - 9
A1, A2, A3, H1, H2, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Perennial
Full Sun, Partial Sun
4"-16" / 10.2cm - 40.6cm
12"-20" / 30.5cm - 50.8cm
Summer
Europe, Iraq, Iran
Acidic, Neutral
Well Drained
Clay, Loam, Sand
Drought
Fast
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
Spreading
Showy
Lavender
Sandy Brown
Light Green
Yes
No
Single
Medium
Matte
Bedding Plant, Herb / Vegetable
Sometimes
Hummingbirds
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