Low-growing perennial with aromatic leaves. The pale purple flowers appear between May and August. Prefers sunny, dry site.
Other Names: Cushion Calamint
Distribution: Native perennial of hedgerows and scrub. It is common in EnglandandWalesbut becoming rarer in ScotlandandIreland.
Habitat: grassland, scrub, hedgerows and edge of woodland; dry, alkaline soils; sunny site.
Description: height 60cm; hairy, slightly aromatic leaves; pale, purply pink flowers between July and September.
Uses: In ancient times, wild basil was believed to have the power to repel serpents. In mediaeval times, basil was mixed with the rushes that were strewn on the floors. It was included in posies by officials to protect themselves from unpleasant smells and the diseases they believed were carried by them. It has been used in medicine and cookery - it smells faintly like thyme, especially when bruised.
Wildlife: It is very attractive to butterflies which seek the nectar in its flowers.
Our plants and seeds are of native British origin.
