A soft, fast-growing shrub with aromatic foliage that erupts in a haze of purple bell flowers in spring. Brush the leaves for their minty scent; a lovely short-lived feature.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Oval-leaf Mint Bush
Prostanthera ovalifolia is a fast-growing shrub in the Lamiaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and aromatic foliage. Purple flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Oval-leaf Mint Bush
Oval-leaf Mint Bush suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Oval-leaf Mint Bush does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Oval-leaf Mint Bush is regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Oval-leaf Mint Bush after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Oval-leaf Mint Bush in the garden
Oval-leaf Mint Bush earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, its fragrance, feeding bees and pollinators and cut flowers for the vase.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Oval-leaf Mint Bush with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Oval-leaf Mint Bush
Plant Sale lists Oval-leaf Mint Bush as tube stock and potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.