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Hedeoma pulegioides
American pennyroyal
Hedeoma pulegioides
Hedeoma pulegioides, commonly known as American Pennyroyal, is a native North American annual plant in the mint family. It has a strong minty aroma and has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. It is a low-growing plant with small leaves and tiny purple flowers. Note that while it has medicinal uses, it can be toxic in high doses.
CategoryDetails
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity2 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan12 months lifespan
Toxic to humansToxic to humans
ToxicityToxic to: Dogs, Cats, Horses
Sun Requirements4-6 hours direct sunlight (Partial Sun)
Pollination

Method: insect

Notes: Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: When soil is dry to the touch

Notes: Avoid overwatering, as American Pennyroyal prefers well-drained soil.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Care InstructionsAmerican Pennyroyal benefits from regular deadheading to encourage more blooms. Provide adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Temperature Range

Min: -10°C

Max: 30°C

Alternative NamesAmerican false pennyroyal
Calendula officinalis
pot marigold
Calendula officinalis
Calendula attracts beneficial insects, such as hoverflies, that can help control pests that might affect American Pennyroyal. Calendula also provides ground cover, helping to retain soil moisture.
Mentha spicata
spearmint
Mentha spicata

Spearmint can aggressively spread and compete for resources like sunlight and nutrients, potentially overshadowing and hindering the growth of American Pennyroyal.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can weaken American Pennyroyal. Symptoms include distorted or yellowing leaves, sticky honeydew, and the presence of the aphids themselves on stems and leaves.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that suck plant sap, causing stippling on the leaves of American Pennyroyal. Heavy infestations can lead to yellowing, bronzing, and webbing on the plant.

Steps:

    • Collect seeds from dried flower heads in the fall.
    • Directly sow seeds in early spring after the last frost, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
    • Sow seeds shallowly, as they need light to germinate.
    • Keep soil consistently moist until germination, which usually takes 10-14 days.
    • Thin seedlings to allow adequate spacing.

Neem Oil

Effective against aphids and spider mites, common pests of American Pennyroyal.

Diatomaceous Earth

Can be used as a soil amendment to prevent pests from reaching the plant. Sprinkle around the base of the plant to control crawling pests.