Japanese Shrub Mint

(Comanthosphace stellipila)

Japanese Shrub Mint (Comanthosphace stellipila)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Comanthosphace stellipila, commonly known as Japanese Shrub Mint, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the forest edges and grasslands of Japan. It typically grows to a height of 2 feet (0.6 meters) and a width of 3 feet (0.9 meters). This plant features an upright, bushy form with ovate to lance-shaped leaves and produces dense whorls of tubular, pink flowers in the summer and fall, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Japanese Shrub Mint is valued for its aromatic foliage and the extended flowering period, which adds color to the garden in seasons when many other plants have ceased blooming. It is used in border plantings, as a ground cover, and in herb gardens for its culinary and medicinal properties. It requires consistent moisture but is relatively low-maintenance once established. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from clay to loam. While it thrives in full sun or part shade, too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers. There are no widely known serious disease or pest problems, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is not typically invasive, but gardeners should be mindful of its spreading habit.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Forest edges and grasslands of Japan

Other Names

Common Names: October Moon

Scientific Names: , Leucosceptrum stellipilum, Comanthosphace stellipila, Elsholtzia stellipila, Pogostemon stellipila,

GBIF Accepted Name: Comanthosphace stellipila (Miq.) S.Moore ex Briq.