Crested latesummer mint (Elsholtzia ciliata)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Elsholtzia ciliata is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic condiment for vegetable dishes. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; Finely cut then added to salads or used as a potherb.; The leaves can be used as an aromatic condiment for vegetable dishes.; The powdered seeds are used as a condiment for flavouring foodstuffs.

Habitat & North American Range

Roadsides, old fields etc in Eastern N. America. Grassy areas in mountains in Korea. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)