Nepitella Seeds - Lesser Calamint Perennial Culinary Herb

Bring a distinctive minty flavor to your herb garden with Nepitella, also known as lesser calamint (Calamintha nepeta). This aromatic perennial is a regional favorite in Tuscan cooking, where its leaves complement mushrooms, zucchini, tomatoes, and other vegetables.

What you receive

Seeds for growing Nepitella, not live plants or harvested herbs. Choose a 30-seed or 100-seed pack from the available options.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Calamintha nepeta
• Common names: Nepitella, Nepita, lesser calamint, and basil thyme
• Life cycle: Perennial herb
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Average, well-drained soil
• USDA hardiness zones: 4–9, with performance depending on local conditions and drainage

Starting from seed

Sow in a fine seed-starting mix, pressing the small seeds onto the surface and covering only lightly. Water gently and keep the mix evenly moist, not waterlogged. Provide a warm, bright location and avoid letting the surface dry out during germination.

Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into individual pots. Gradually acclimate indoor-grown plants to outdoor conditions before planting out after the risk of frost has passed.

Growing and care

Choose a sunny to partly shaded spot with good drainage. Water young plants regularly while they establish, allowing excess water to drain freely. Pinch growing tips to encourage a fuller plant and trim as needed to keep growth tidy.

Harvest and kitchen use

Once plants are established, snip small amounts of leafy growth as needed, leaving enough foliage for continued growth. Add the minty leaves to sautéed mushrooms or zucchini with tomatoes and garlic, or use them to season vegetable and meat dishes. Start with a little and adjust to taste.