Micromeria douglasii aka Yerba Buena

Micromeria douglasii is called yerba buena. It belongs to Lamiaceae, the mint family. Its native range runs from Alaska south to California. It grows in regions with a temperate climate, including conifer woods. Sources also name it Micromeria chamissonis and Satureja douglasii. In the supplied evidence, all three names mean the same species. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This low perennial lives for more than two years. It has a woody base and stems that trail. It reaches about 0.3 feet [0.1 metres] tall. Its spread is about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Stems root where leaf axils meet the soil. These are the points where leaves join the stem. This helps the plant spread along the ground. Bruised leaves give off a fresh scent like lemon. The plant blooms from April to May. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers.

Grow it in soil that drains well. It suits sand or loam, even soil with few nutrients. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. It can grow in sun or light woodland shade. PFAF reports that sunny, sandy sites help it grow better. Plants also live longer in those sites. The soil may be dry or moist. The source lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9. Its low form suits woodland edges and plantings grown for scent. Stems that root can help cover small patches of ground.

Steep dried leaves in boiling water for tea that tastes of mint. People have also put leaves among clothes for their scent. PFAF records folk uses for health, not proven treatments. These include plant infusions for sleep trouble and stomach upsets. Records also list their use for colds and fevers. Other uses include kidney complaints and worms in the gut. People have used warm leaves as a poultice for toothache. The source reports no known hazards. This does not mean the plant is wholly safe. It names no specific pests or diseases.

Grow new plants from seed, basal cuttings, or split rooted stems. Sow seed under glass in spring. Keep each seedling in its own pot through its first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost. Take basal cuttings from the base in early summer. Keep some underground stem on each one. Leave these in light shade until they root well. Split rooted trailing stems in spring. PFAF does not flag the species as a weed risk.