About this seed
Isodon rugosus is an aromatic deciduous shrub of the mint family, up to 1.5 m tall, with small white, pink or violet flowers from July to September. Bees use it as a honey source. The packet holds 50 seeds.
Also known as: Rugose Isodon, Boi, Sperkai. Family Lamiaceae.
How to recognise it
- Erect, four-angled branches.
- Broadly ovate green leaves with small star-shaped hairs that give them a rough texture.
- Two-lipped flowers about 6 mm long.
- Fruits: oblong dark brown nutlets.
Climate and soil
It grows mainly in subtropical conditions and suits mild to warm climates. Its natural range runs from Oman east to Bangladesh. It accepts sandy, loamy and clay soils as long as they are moist and drain well, in full sun to semi-shade.
Sowing
Specific germination protocols for this species are not well documented. Sow in well-draining mix, keep it moist and give it light; avoid waterlogging. Record what works, as there is no reference timing to compare with.
What you get
One packet of 50 Isodon rugosus seeds. We have no sourced emergence time or germination percentage for this lot.
FAQ
Is it a herb or a shrub?
A small deciduous shrub up to about 1.5 m, aromatic like other members of the mint family.
When does it flower?
From July to September.
Is it useful for bees?
Yes. In its native habitats it is recognised as a good honey source.
