Yerba Buena
Clinopodium douglasii
About this plant
Clinopodium douglasii, commonly known as Yerba Buena, is a low-growing aromatic herb native to the western United States. It has small green leaves and tiny white to pale pink flowers. Traditionally, it has been used for its soothing scent and mild medicinal properties. It is often found in natural gardens and used as ground cover due to its spreading habit.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Clinopodium
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Herb
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Western United States
- Distribution
- Native to the western United States, especially California, Oregon, and Washington; also cultivated in similar climates.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7–10
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce the plant's aromatic qualities.
Clinopodium douglasii is a hardy plant that thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil. It requires little maintenance and tolerates dry conditions well. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root problems.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Aromatic green foliage with small, delicate white to pale pink flowers that attract pollinators.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact, Pollen
- Pollen level
- Low
Clinopodium douglasii may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to contact with its leaves or flowers. People with plant allergies should handle it with care and avoid direct skin contact if prone to irritation.
Common problems
If overwatered, the plant may develop root rot. Poor drainage or too much shade can cause weak growth.
Uses
Used as an aromatic herb in gardens and traditional medicine for its calming scent. Also serves as ground cover in landscaping.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth. It can spread via runners, so control its spread if needed. Suitable for rock gardens and naturalized areas.