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clinopodium

Scientific Name: Clinopodium

Family: Lamiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Clinopodium vulgare (Wild Basil)

Clinopodium vulgare, commonly known as Wild Basil, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Lamiaceae (Mint) family.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some Clinopodium species are aromatic, which may be of interest to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Clinopodium vulgare
  • Common Name: Wild Basil
  • Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
  • Synonyms: Satureja vulgaris, Acinos vulgaris,
  • The text discusses the transfer of genera Acinos, Calamintha and Micromeria p.p. to the genus Clinopodium.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Clinopodium vulgare is found on dry, south-facing banks and rough grassland with calcareous, sandy, or gravelly soils.
  • It is described as being present on all continents (referring to the genus Clinopodium).
  • In Britain, it usually grows on calcareous soils, while in Ireland, it occurs on sandy and gravelly soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Clinopodium vulgare is a perennial herb that grows to approximately 0.5 meters (1ft 8in) in height and width.
  • It has square stems, a characteristic of the mint family.
  • The plant features flowers with joined petals.
  • Stems are typically unbranched and softly hairy.
  • Leaves are oval, slightly toothed, and short-stalked.
  • Flowers are pinkish purple and measure 12 to 22 mm.

Uses

  • The leaves are edible and can be used fresh or dried as a flavoring in cooked foods or salads.
  • In Bulgarian folk medicine, Clinopodium vulgare L. has been used to heal wounds, particularly during wars.

Quirky Facts

  • In central Florida, the scent of mint near a car accident might actually be the aroma of Clinopodium, due to sensory crossover.

Other Clinopodium Species Mentioned

  • Clinopodium bolivianum (Inca Mua)
  • Clinopodium douglasii (Yerba Buena)
  • Clinopodium ascendens (Common Calamint)
  • Clinopodium hakkaricum
  • Clinopodium chinense
  • Clinopodium alpinum
  • Clinopodium chandleri
  • Clinopodium coccineum (Scarlet Calamint)
  • Clinopodium nubigenum
  • Clinopodium mexicanum (Orange-flowered Mexican Savory)

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Clinopodium vulgare.