LAMIACEAE (LABIATAE)

Alpine mint bush

Extinct 

0.6m - 1.0m (60-100cm) 

Flowers white, with throat and lower parts of the lobes spotted with purple. 

Woody capsule 

Spreading shrub; strong-smelling. 

Launceston; Northern Midlands 

Riparian 

Previously reported as local on the banks of the South Esk River, however it may now be extinct in Tasmania. 

Moist 

 

Phosphorous intolerant; Well-drained 

Prostantheras require full sun and excellent drainage. Even in ideal conditions they are not long-lived. To overcome the problem, the Australian National Botanic Gardens began, in the 1970s, to graft Prostanthera on to Westringia fruticosa rootstock. If grafting is not done, Prostanthera generally needs to be repropagated regularly. Suitable below powerlines. 

The seeds develop within the calyx when the floral tube falls from the flower. when the calyx changes colour, collect those seeds which feel enlarged. bag immature fruit or place a groundsheet under the plant , or collect capsules near maturity and let dry in warm place 

 

Short 

 

For Prostantheras, propagation from seed has given erratic results. Low viability may occur in heavy seed crop years. Use fresh seed. 

 

 

 

 

No 

Prostantheras generally can be grown from cuttings, but may be slow to strike. Misting is not advised as cuttings tend to rot.