Clinopodium alpinum aka Alpine Calamint
Taxonomy
Clinopodium alpinum, also known as rock thyme, is a perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. It has several subspecies, including C. alpinum meriodionale, which has smaller flowers, and C. alpinum majoranifolium, which grows in smaller bunches. Rock thyme is sometimes used in pharmacology for its diaphoretic and antipyretic properties and can be brewed as tea. Additionally, various Clinopodium species, such as C. laevigatum, are used as medicinal herbs in different parts of the world.
As a houseplant, Clinopodium alpinum is super rare and needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. Well-draining soil is ideal for this plant, and it shouldn't need added fertilizers if you repot it each time it doubles in size.
Common names
Alpine CalamintHow to care for Alpine Calamint
Difficulty
Alpine Calamint is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Alpine Calamint should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Alpine Calamint loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Alpine Calamint prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The Alpine Calamint should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Clinopodium Genus
Clinopodium brownei Browne's Wild Basil
Clinopodium glabellum Ozark Calamint
Clinopodium coccineum Scarlet Calamint
Clinopodium Calamint
Clinopodium caucasicum Clinopodium Caucasicum
Clinopodium alpinum Alpine Calamint
Clinopodium menthifolium Wood Calamint
Clinopodium vulgare Wild Basil
