Mexican mint - Plectranthus amboinicus

Plectranthus amboinicus is a well-known plant in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and, more generally, in the Caribbean.

It is a perennial herbaceous plant that is not hardy. It is grown for its medicinal properties as well as for its use as an aromatic and seasoning plant. It is widely used in Creole and African cuisine.

Its aroma is quite different from common thyme and is closer to that of oregano, hence the name Cuban oregano.

It is used in cooking, to flavour meats, fish, and many traditional Caribbean dishes.

It is also used in traditional medicine. It is prepared as an infusion or syrup to relieve coughs, respiratory problems, or even to promote lactation. Its leaves are also used as a small poultice to heal minor wounds and insect bites

Plectranthus amboinicus belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Amboinicus refers to the island of Ambon, located in the Indonesian archipelago of the Moluccas. However, its origin remains uncertain.

Like decorative plectranthus or coleus, it is distinguished by its abundant and evergreen foliage. It consists of grey-green, wide, thick, slightly fuzzy leaves that are carried on long quadrangular stems. These leaves are highly fragrant and aromatic.

It forms a rounded clump that reaches between 30 and 40cm (12 and 16in) in height and a little more in width when grown in a pot. When planted in the ground in tropical regions, it can form a beautiful bush about 1m (3ft) in all directions.

Although perennial, it is not hardy and is sensitive to frost. In our climates, it should be grown in a pot to be overwintered in a cold greenhouse, veranda, or even indoors on a sunny windowsill. It appreciates warmth, well-drained and dry soil or substrate, and partial shade.

Harvest: as needed. Like basil, regular harvesting serves as pruning and helps it maintain a compact habit.

The gardener's tip: this aromatic plant is frost-sensitive and may not survive the winter if planted in the ground. It is easily propagated by cuttings. Keep this in mind in autumn!