Yerba Buena or Douglas' Mint, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America. It belongs to the Mint family, and thus has a very pleasant “cool mint” scent when leaves are crushed or brushed against. Because of this, the plant is often confused with spearmint (Mentha spicata). The plant is mostly sought after for both its culinary and herbal uses. Traditionally the plant has a robust history of use as a remedy for digestive issues, respiratory problems, and headaches.
Growth Form: low-growing, spreading mats, reaching heights of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm).
Light: thrives in partial to full shade.
Water: appreciates consistent moisture
Soil: can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, or sandy soil, but loam is preferrable
Hardiness: USDA zones 8 to 10. In Sunset zones, it is typically recommended for zones 8, 9, 14-24.
Type: perennial herb
Maintenance and special care: Yerba Buena is relatively low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for ground cover and landscaping projects. It requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and prevent overgrowth. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, is necessary to keep the plant healthy and flourishing. It has a spreading habit, (though not as aggressive as Mint) so it may require some containment in garden beds to prevent it from invading neighboring plants. Overall, Clinopodium douglasii is a versatile and charming herb that adds a delightful fragrance and a touch of greenery to shaded areas in the garden.