Prostanthera incana, commonly known as Velvet Mintbush, is an evergreen shrub native to the dry sclerophyll forests and coastal heathlands of Southeastern Australia. It is characterized by its erect and moderately dense form, with egg-shaped, aromatic leaves and hairy branchlets that give the plant its common name. The Velvet Mintbush typically reaches a height of 1–2.5 m (3 ft 3 in – 8 ft 2 in). Its lilac-colored flowers are tubular and bloom profusely from August to December, adding a splash of color to the garden during these months. The flowers are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as bees.

Velvet Mintbush is valued for its aromatic foliage and vibrant flowers, which make it an excellent choice for sensory gardens, native plantings, and as a feature shrub in mixed borders. It is also used in traditional medicine by indigenous Australians. This shrub is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning to keep its shape. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. While it tolerates low water conditions once established, moderate watering will encourage more prolific flowering. Velvet Mintbush is not known for aggressive roots or serious disease problems, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. It is also frost-tolerant, making it suitable for a variety of temperate climates.CC BY-SA 4.0