Few people will have problems identifying the mints and their relatives. Though they may differ in other respects, all of these will have the characteristic square stem for which they are best known. The leaves are either opposite or in whorls. Typically these are quite aromatic due to the small glands that contain volatile oils. These plants tend to have flowers that are borne either in racemes or spikes from the leaf axils or terminally.
Within the mint family, the most popular ones used for culinary purposes include basil, lavender, the mints, oregano, rosemary, sage, the various marjorams, and thyme. Horehound, perilla, and anise hyssop are also edible though they aren't as commonly grown as the others.
In addition to the edible ones, the group features others that are typically used for ornamental purposes. These include germander, lamb's ears, and Russian sage. Some other members of the mint group are used for various herbal purposes, such as the catnip or catmint, lemon balm, and bee balm.
Let's take a look at some of these individual family members, and explore their uses in the landscape.
Hardy to zone 4, anise hyssop can reach 3 feet in height. It is sometimes called giant hyssop. I've found this perennial does very well in partial shade. This beautiful plant is very suitable for flower beds and borders. For annual flower beds, choose the quick blooming kinds that will produce blossoms the very first year. With various varieties that are available, you can pretty well take your pick of colors. As a perennial it blooms from summer until frost.
Though hyssop can be several feet in height, it is often shorter. This species will also tolerate partial shade. A bushy perennial, hyssop blooms from summer through the fall. It is a suitable choice for mixed borders.
Although we think of lavender as a perennial, it is usually classified as a low shrub. It deserves a place in dry, well drained borders. There are numerous species, but they all tend to bloom throughout the summer and early fall. Their gray-green leaves are their most ornamental feature. The fragrance is incomparable, which can be found in all parts of the plants.
