Monardella lanceolata - Mustang Mint

Monardella lanceolata is a low growing herbaceous perennial. The Mustang Mint grows from the chapparal up into the pine forests. Monardella lanceolata seems best placed where plants get shade during part of the day. I have usually seen Mondardella lanceolata growing on South facing slopes tucked under another shrub or where it gets a little mid-day or afternoon shade from a rock or tree. Mustang Mint is edible but a little hairy for general eating. Nibbling on a leaf is a pleasant distraction from while on a long hike. I like to allow the Mustang Mint to trail over a wall or rock. Monardella lanceolata is a nectar source for a number of butterflies including: Red Admiral, Monarch Butterfly, Swallowtail, Painted Lady, California Dogface, Mournful Duskywing. This plant will be a center of attention in a Butterfly Garden. Monardella lanceolata blooms from Spring through frost.