Family: Lamiaceae
Author: (Raf.) Shinners
Bibliography: Rhodora 64: 185 (1962)
Year: 1962
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hyptis
Vegetable: False
Observations: Subtrop. America
Description
Cluster bush-mint, scientifically known as Hyptis alata, is a fascinating plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Native to subtropical regions of America, this plant has garnered attention from botanists and plant enthusiasts for its unique characteristics and adaptability to various environments.
The original authoritative description of Hyptis alata was published in the journal “Rhodora” in the year 1962, as documented by Shinners, following initial identification by Rafinesque. This enduring piece of botanical literature remains an essential resource for anyone studying this distinctive member of the mint family.
Hyptis alata thrives in subtropical climates, where it can often be found growing in wild, uncultivated areas. It is recognized for its aromatic leaves, typical of many plants within the Lamiaceae family, which often exude a pleasant, minty fragrance when crushed. This attribute not only makes it a natural addition to gardens aimed at sensory appeal but also underscores its potential for use in herbal applications and natural remedies.
The plant typically presents with a bushy, clustered growth pattern, as suggested by its common name. Its stems and branches support lance-shaped leaves and small, delicate flowers that are usually arranged in tight whorls. These flowers, while modest in size, contribute a subtle beauty to the plant’s overall appearance and can attract various pollinators, thus playing a role in the local ecosystem.
For gardeners and horticulturists, Hyptis alata offers minimal maintenance and can become a resilient addition to subtropical garden settings. Its ability to thrive in various soil types, coupled with its drought tolerance, makes it a viable option for landscapes prone to challenging growing conditions.
In summary, the cluster bush-mint is more than just a visually appealing plant; it is a testament to botanical resilience and adaptability. Its enduring presence in subtropical America, underpinned by comprehensive botanical research, cements Hyptis alata’s status as a significant member of the natural world, worthy of both study and admiration.
Common Names
Eng: cluster bush-mint, clustered bushmint, desert-lavender
En: Cluster bush-mint, Desert-lavender, Clustered bushmint, Butter mint, Mustky Mint, Clustered Bush-Mint
Synonyms
- Pycnanthemum alatum (Raf.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Sep 14, 2012 by EOL − Jason Sharp (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2007 by EOL − Patrick Coin (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2007 by EOL − Patrick Coin (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Sep 29, 2012 by EOL − SharpJ99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2015 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Nov 10, 2021 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 5, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 26, 2013 by EOL − Will DeGravelles (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 29, 2015 by EOL − grbfrog (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Sep 3, 2012 by EOL − Mary Keim (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 22, 2015 by EOL − Laura Clark (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2926817)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:126666-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hyptis alata (Raf.) Shinners)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
