WildBristol.uk - Discovering Wildlife in Bristol

Widespread but occasional throughout the UK. Most common in the South. Habitat includes: Calcareous soils in places such as hedge banks, open woodland, scrub, grassland, coastal cliffs, sand dunes, wasteland, railway banks, roadside verges, old quarries etc. Other name include: Cushion Calamint. Uses: used as a strewing herb during the medieval times. It would be scattered on the floor of homes so when it was walked upon and crushed it would release a nice aroma. Used as a dye (produces a yellow or brown colour), used to treat flatulence! Growing habit: Rhizomatous Perennial. Height: Up to 60 cm. Flowers: June to September. It is in decline in the North.