Mint ‘Yerba Buena’ (Clinopodium douglasii) is a low-growing, aromatic perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae), native to western North America. Known as “good herb” in Spanish, it forms a spreading, mat-like groundcover with creeping stems that root along their length. The plant features small, rounded to oval, bright green leaves with scalloped edges and a pleasant minty fragrance. It reaches a height of only 47 inches (1018 cm) but can spread up to 36 feet (0.91.8 m) wide, producing tiny white to lavender two-lipped flowers in the leaf axils during spring and summer.
Yerba Buena thrives in USDA hardiness zones 710 (or broader in Sunset zones 224), preferring partial shade to full shade, moist but well-drained soil, and moderate water. It excels as a shade-tolerant groundcover under trees or in woodland gardens. Its leaves are traditionally brewed into a mild, refreshing tea (Oregon tea) for digestive aid, headaches, and general wellness; they also flavor foods, provide medicinal uses in folk remedies, and add fragrance to potpourri or essential oils, offering a delicate alternative to bolder mints.
Mature Height: 7″
Mature Width: 6ft
Light: Full Sun
Water: Moderate
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