Mexican Mint

(Coleus amboinicus)

Mexican Mint (Coleus amboinicus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Coleus amboinicus, commonly known as Mexican Mint or Indian Borage, is an evergreen perennial herb native to Southern and Eastern Africa, as well as parts of the Middle East and South Asia. It typically grows up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) tall and wide, with a sprawling habit and a thick, succulent stem. The leaves are fleshy, green, and highly aromatic, with a strong oregano-like flavor, making them popular in culinary uses. Coleus amboinicus produces small, purplish flowers in whorled spikes during the summer and fall, which are less showy compared to its vibrant foliage.

Mexican Mint is valued for its culinary and medicinal properties, as well as its ease of maintenance and drought tolerance once established. It is commonly used in herb gardens, as a border plant, or in containers that can be moved indoors in cooler climates. It thrives in well-drained soil, prefers part shade to full sun (depending on the climate), and requires moderate watering. In tropical climates, it benefits from full sun to prevent fungal diseases, while in cooler regions, it should be protected from frost. It can be propagated easily from cuttings, which root readily in water or soil.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1.6-3.2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to Southern and Eastern Africa, parts of the Middle East, and South Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Indian Borage, Country Borage, French Thyme, Indian Mint, Cuban Oregano, Soup Mint, Spanish Thyme, 到手香

Scientific Names: , Plectranthus amboinicus, Coleus amboinicus, Coleus aromaticus, Coleus carnosus, Coleus subfrutectosus, Coleus amboinicus var. violaceus, Coleus crassifolius, Coleus suborbicularis, Coleus suganda

GBIF Accepted Name: Coleus amboinicus Lour.