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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Oval-leaf Mint Bush does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Oval-leaf Mint Bush after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance 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
Oval-leaf Mint Bush sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered 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. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
