Monardella villosa ssp. franciscana 'Russian River', Russian River Coyote Mint

Introduced by Cal Flora Nursery, this fragrant sub-shrub from the mint family is easier to grow in the garden. With dainty lavender blooms, it grows about 2 ft tall and 3 ft wide. Appreciates good drainage, and is another drought tolerant native. It blooms in the summertime, but bloom and foliage quality improve with some summer irrigation, particularly inland. Light pruning helps maintain a neat appearance. It is deer resistant, and likes full sun or part shade. It's tea leaves are known to be used for stomach ailments historically.

Photo by Twila Newey