Cushion Calamint
Clinopodium vulgare
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NM
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Cushion calamint is a compact perennial herb that forms neat mounds of small, aromatic leaves. It produces delicate clusters of tiny white to pale purple flowers from July through September, creating a tidy, cottage garden appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cushion Calamint takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- May appear weedy or unfamiliar to landscaping boards
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees and butterflies with its summer blooms. The flowers provide nectar for pollinators during the late summer months when other flowers may be scarce.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Cushion Calamint fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.