Family: Lamiaceae
Author: Benth.
Bibliography: Labiat. Gen. Spec.: 368 (1834)
Year: 1834
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hedeoma
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & C. U.S.A. to N. Mexico
Description
New Mexico Pennyroyal, scientifically known as Hedeoma drummondii, is a fascinating member of the Lamiaceae family, distinguished for its aromatic qualities and resilience in arid environments. This herbaceous plant, first documented in 1834 by the botanist George Bentham, has carved out a niche within the landscapes of the western and central United States, extending its reach into the arid terrains of New Mexico.
The New Mexico Pennyroyal features a petite stature with slender stems, adorned with small, aromatic leaves that release a minty fragrance when crushed. This characteristic aroma is a hallmark of many plants within the Lamiaceae family, commonly referred to as the mint family. The tiny, tubular flowers of Hedeoma drummondii, typically presenting a soft periwinkle hue, attract various pollinators, thus playing a pivotal role in maintaining the ecological balance within its native regions.
Adapted to thrive in the challenging conditions of its native habitats, New Mexico Pennyroyal exhibits remarkable drought resistance, making it a pivotal species in the fragile ecosystems of the American Southwest. Its presence across a range of elevations and soil types underscores its versatility and adaptability.
The significance of Hedeoma drummondii extends beyond its ecological role; it has been utilized in traditional herbal practices by indigenous peoples and early settlers of the region. The strong, mint-like scent makes it a valuable plant for both medicinal and culinary uses, albeit with caution due to the potential toxicity inherent in high concentrations of the plant’s volatile oils.
In conclusion, New Mexico Pennyroyal stands as a testament to the rich botanical diversity and adaptive capabilities of flora in the American Southwest. Its presence and persistence highlight its ecological importance and its enduring legacy in both natural and cultural landscapes.
Common Names
Eng: drummond’s false pennyroyal, drummond’s pennyroyal, new mexico pennyroyal
En: New Mexico pennyroyal, Drummond’s false pennyroyal, DRUMMOND FALSEPENNYROYAL, Drummond false pennyroyal, Drummond’s falsepennyroyal, Drummond’s pennyroyal
Ar: هديومة دورموندية
Nv: Tłʼoh niłchiin
Synonyms
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- North Dakota (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jul 2, 2013 by EOL − Mikael Behrens (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 2, 2014 by EOL − Kenneth Bader (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 13, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 18, 2015 by EOL − griff (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Aug 15, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2926697)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:447626-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hedeoma drummondii Benth.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb
