Description
Lamiaceae (Family name)
Forage for Pollinators: Produces Pollen and Nectar for probably every species of Bee but is particularly attractive to Short-tongued Bumblebees and Honeybees. So much so that when it flowers there is almost never a moment when there are not some bees on it, even if the drift is not large. You can never have too much in your bee garden. Pollinated by bees.
Flowering time: July, August, September, November.
Growing information: NATIVE PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft) and hardy across the British Isles. Abundant small pale pink flowers are carried on long spikes. Prefers light, well-drained soil. We find it grows perfectly in a shallow layer of gravel laid over clay soil, as it has shallow roots. Apart from being loved by bees and cats, this herb has a long history of use with its mint-like flavour (the young leaves) in salads, and as a household herbal remedy, its gentle action making it suitable for treating colds, flu and fevers in children. Attracts lots of bee pollinators.
