Common Name:  Dittany, Common Dittany, American Dittany, Frost Mint

Full to part sun; medium to dry moisture level; tolerates a range of soils including loamy, sandy, and rocky; slightly acid to slightly alkaline pH. 8-18 inches height, blooms in summer, delicate purple to pinkish flowers. May spread somewhat aggressively.

Germination Code: A

Native Region: Concentrated in western portion of Highland Rim and in the Ridge and Valley Province

A member of the mint family with pleasantly aromatic leaves that can be used in teas. Sometimes called Wild Oregano because scent is much the same. Historically cultivated as a medicinal herb. Known for its curious physical property of forming “frost flowers” of ice crystals in winter when the hollow stems act as capillaries, hence its common name of Frost Mint. Tolerates drought and dry soil. Excellent rock garden plant. Occurs naturally in dry, rocky or open woods, clearings, slopes and prairies. Attracts bees.