{"title":"Native Mint Bushes (Prostanthera)","description":"\u003cp\u003eMint bushes are Australian native shrubs in the genus Prostanthera, grown for strongly aromatic leaves and a mass of mauve, purple, pink or white flowers that covers the plant in spring. They are quick to establish and flower young, which makes them useful fillers in a new native garden. Choose by height and by climate: round leaf and oval leaf mint bushes for mild districts, alpine mint bush where frosts are hard, and compact forms for pots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to choose a mint bush\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/round-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-rotundifolia\"\u003eRound Leaf Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is the one most gardeners know: a dense shrub to about 2 metres with small rounded leaves and mauve to purple flowers that hide the foliage in spring. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/oval-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-ovalifolia\"\u003eOval Leaf Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is taller and faster, to 2 or 3 metres, with arching branches, and suits the back of a native border or an informal screen. For cold districts choose the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/alpine-mint-bush-prostanthera-cuneata\"\u003eAlpine Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e, a compact high country shrub around a metre high with dark glossy leaves and white flowers marked with purple in late spring and summer. It is the frost hardy one of the group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAmong the named forms, the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mini-pink-round-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-rotundifolia-mini-pink\"\u003eMini Pink Round-leaf Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is a smaller, pink flowered selection of the round leaf species for pots and tight spots. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/poorinda-ballerina-mint-bush-prostanthera-poorinda-ballerina\"\u003ePoorinda Ballerina Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is one of the long grown Poorinda hybrids raised in Victoria, and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/purple-haze-rough-mint-bush-prostanthera-denticulata-purple-haze\"\u003ePurple Haze Rough Mint Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is a selection of the rough mint bush, a low growing species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere mint bushes grow\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eProstanthera is a wholly Australian genus, mostly from the forests and ranges of the south east. Mint bushes suit cool temperate and warm temperate gardens, and the tougher species cope in the subtropics on a slope or raised bed with morning sun. Humid summers with wet soil are what kill them, so they are not plants for the tropics. Most take light frost, and alpine mint bush takes heavy frost and snow. Give them sun for at least half the day, soil that drains fast and some shelter from strong wind, because the wood is brittle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey sit naturally with other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e, with \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/westringia\"\u003ewestringia\u003c\/a\u003e, a relative in the mint family that is tougher on the coast, and in a garden planted for \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-bee-plants\"\u003enative bees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and spacing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant in autumn or early spring. On clay, build a mound or raised bed about 30 centimetres high rather than digging a hole that holds water. Space the round leaf and alpine species about a metre apart for an informal low hedge, the oval leaf mint bush 1.5 metres apart, and compact forms 60 to 80 centimetres apart. Mulch with coarse bark or gravel and keep it clear of the stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCare basics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWater through the first summer, then deeply and less often. Established plants like to dry a little between soakings, but they wilt fast in a real dry spell, so do not leave them parched in a heatwave. If you feed at all, use a low phosphorus native fertiliser in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePrune lightly straight after flowering, taking back about a third of the new growth to keep the bush dense. Do not cut into old leafless wood. Mint bushes are often short lived: five to ten years is normal, and less in heavy soil or humid summers. A branch or a whole plant that collapses suddenly usually has root rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow long do mint bushes live?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually five to ten years. Sharp drainage and a light prune each year after flowering give the longest life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre mint bushes frost hardy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost tolerate light frost. Alpine mint bush is the hardy species and handles heavy frost and snow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I prune a mint bush?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight after the spring flowers finish. Trim the soft growth only and stay out of bare wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow a mint bush in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Use a free draining native potting mix and choose a compact form or the alpine mint bush.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"round-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-rotundifolia","title":"Round Leaf Mint Bush - Prostanthera rotundifolia","description":"\u003cp\u003eRound Leaf Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera rotundifolia\u003c\/em\u003e) earns its keep twice over. Brush past it and the small round leaves release a sharp mint scent, then in spring the whole shrub disappears under a haze of purple flowers. It reaches about 2.5m tall and 2m wide, fast enough to soften a fence line within a few seasons, and handles frost, drought and poor soil once established. The one thing it will not forgive is wet feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAromatic foliage you actually notice.\u003c\/strong\u003e The rounded leaves carry a strong mint fragrance, released when someone walks past or the wind moves through it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA spring flowering worth planning around.\u003c\/strong\u003e Purple blooms cover the branches so heavily the foliage almost vanishes for several weeks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy and drought tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e Once established it copes with cold southern winters and dry summers, in ground too poor for most flowering shrubs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNectar for birds and insects.\u003c\/strong\u003e Honeyeaters, native bees and butterflies all work the spring flowers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screening and hedging.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.2m apart for a screen that closes over without being clipped square. At 2.5m it covers a standard fence and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMass planting on slopes and banks.\u003c\/strong\u003e Its tolerance of poor, gravelly soil suits difficult ground at the edge of a block, where drainage is naturally sharp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature planting near paths.\u003c\/strong\u003e Site one beside a path, a gate or a seat, so the scent gets used rather than wasted at the back of a bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing round leaf mint bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun gives the heaviest flowering, though it takes light shade in hot inland gardens. This is a plant for warm temperate, cool temperate and Mediterranean climates. Humid tropical and subtropical gardens are the wrong fit, because constant warmth and moisture bring root problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Drainage matters more than fertility. It grows happily in sandy, gravelly and poor soil, but heavy clay that stays wet will kill it. On clay, plant on a mound at least 200mm high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water deeply once or twice a week through the first summer, then leave it to the weather. Use a low phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring, lightly: overfeeding produces soft growth and a shorter life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune straight after flowering, taking up to a third off the new growth to keep it dense. Do not cut into bare old wood, because it reshoots poorly. Five to eight years is a good run for this species, and an annual light prune is the best way to stretch it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe grow it in three sizes. Tube stock is young and single stemmed, the sensible choice for a long run of screening because it catches larger plants within two seasons. The 140mm size comes in packs of ten, ready to plant along a boundary. The 250mm size is sold in packs of three and is on backorder, so allow extra time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants travel upright and are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Advanced and large stock is freighted at cost. Expect a quiet first month, then quick growth through the first warm season. Every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-ultimate-low-maintenance-native-garden-your-step-by-step-australian-guide\"\u003ePlan an Australian native garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eBrowse Australian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-screening\"\u003eCompare hedging and screening plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/screening-plants-2m-to-4m\"\u003eScreening plants from 2m to 4m\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes the foliage really smell like mint?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The scent sits in the leaf and releases when the foliage is crushed or brushed, rather than carrying on the air. It is closer to sharp bush mint than garden mint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow long will it live?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFive to eight years is typical, and in poorly drained ground much less. Sharp drainage and an annual prune after flowering make the biggest difference, and many gardeners plant a replacement once one starts thinning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it survive frost?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is frost hardy and suited to cool temperate gardens, so ordinary winter frosts are no problem once established. Young plants in their first winter still benefit from shelter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51647806505279,"sku":"PRO-ROT-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":54140080980287,"sku":"PRO-ROT-140MM-P10","price":180.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6)","offer_id":55100493562175,"sku":"PRO-ROT-200MM-P6","price":209.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"250mm (Pack of 3) (Backorder)","offer_id":54140081013055,"sku":"PRO-ROT-250MM-P3","price":191.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Round-Leaf-Mint-Bush-Prostanthera-rotundifolia.png?v=1794662985"},{"product_id":"poorinda-ballerina-mint-bush-prostanthera-poorinda-ballerina","title":"Poorinda Ballerina Mint Bush - Prostanthera ‘Poorinda Ballerina’","description":"\u003cp\u003ePoorinda Ballerina Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera\u003c\/em\u003e 'Poorinda Ballerina') is an Australian bred native shrub that covers itself in white flowers with a purple throat every spring. It grows fast to about 2m tall and 2m wide, and the foliage releases a clean mint scent whenever you brush past it. Bees and honeyeaters arrive with the flowers, which makes it one of the better small screening plants for a wildlife garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAromatic foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e The leaves carry a genuine mint fragrance, released by touch, so it earns a spot beside a path or a seat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA spring display you cannot miss.\u003c\/strong\u003e White flowers with purple throats smother the bush, rather than appearing in scattered clusters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast to fill a gap.\u003c\/strong\u003e It reaches 2m by 2m quickly, which makes it useful when a new garden needs cover in a hurry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative and hardy.\u003c\/strong\u003e Frost hardy, drought tolerant once established and wind tolerant, so it copes with an exposed southern garden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value.\u003c\/strong\u003e Bees, butterflies and honeyeaters all work the flowers through the flowering season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal hedging and screening.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1m apart for a flowering hedge. It closes in within two seasons and screens to about 2m, which suits a side boundary or a courtyard divider better than a formal clipped hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e A single plant against a fence or in a native bed is enough, because in spring it becomes the focus of the garden on its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmall gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 2m each way it takes up less room than most flowering natives of the same impact, and it responds well to being kept smaller by pruning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Poorinda Ballerina Mint Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to light shade, in warm temperate, cool temperate and Mediterranean gardens. It is frost hardy once established. It is not suited to the humid tropics and subtropics, where summer wet is the usual cause of sudden losses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp drainage is the one non negotiable. It wants a light, gritty or sandy soil, and on clay it needs a raised mound with coarse material worked through. Mulch lightly and keep the mulch off the stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water weekly through the first summer, then rarely. Established plants resent wet feet far more than dry spells. Use a low phosphorus native fertiliser once in early spring, and nothing heavier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune every year straight after flowering, taking up to a third off. Mint bushes go woody and thin without it, and they do not reliably reshoot from bare old wood, so keep pruning to soft growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt comes in three sizes: tube stock for planting a long hedge economically, 140mm plants in packs of ten, and 250mm plants in packs of three for quicker cover. Tubes are small on arrival but establish fast, and they usually catch larger stock within two seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProstanthera is soft stemmed and can look tired straight out of the box. Plant promptly, water in with a seaweed tonic, and give it a fortnight before judging. Delivered Australia wide, delivery from $29.95, and every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse the wider \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrub range\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/most-fragrant-plants-a-guide-to-aromatic-gardening\"\u003eA guide to the most fragrant plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare options in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bee-and-butterfly-plants\"\u003ebee and butterfly plants\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConsider other \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/alternative-hedging-plants\"\u003ealternative hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it for a hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne metre apart in a single row gives an informal flowering hedge that closes within two seasons. Wider spacing suits a native bed where you want each plant to show its shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy do mint bushes die suddenly?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost always root rot from wet or heavy soil. Plant on a mound, avoid overwatering established plants, and never let mulch pile against the stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow hard can I prune it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake up to a third off after flowering, staying in leafy growth. Cutting back into bare old wood often kills the branch, so prune little and often rather than hard and late.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51647808274751,"sku":"PRO-POO-BAL-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":54140081045823,"sku":"PRO-POO-BAL-140MM-P10","price":203.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6) (Backorder)","offer_id":55100494119231,"sku":"PRO-POO-BAL-200MM-P6","price":203.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"250mm (Pack of 3)","offer_id":54140081078591,"sku":"PRO-POO-BAL-250MM-P3","price":200.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Poorinda-Ballerina-Mint-Bush-Prostanthera-Poorinda-Ballerina.png?v=1794662992"},{"product_id":"oval-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-ovalifolia","title":"Oval Leaf Mint Bush - Prostanthera ovalifolia","description":"\u003cp\u003eOval Leaf Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera ovalifolia\u003c\/em\u003e) is the native shrub that stops people mid conversation in spring, when the whole plant disappears under purple flowers. It grows to around 2.5m tall and 2m wide, fast enough to be useful as an informal screen, and the small grey green leaves release a sharp mint scent whenever you brush past. Few Australian shrubs give this much colour for this little effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA solid month of purple.\u003c\/strong\u003e Through spring the foliage almost vanishes behind massed tubular flowers, which is rare in a native shrub of this size.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAromatic foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e The leaves carry a clean minty oil, so brushing past a path planting releases the scent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBirds and pollinators both.\u003c\/strong\u003e Small honeyeaters take the flowers, and bees work them all day.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuick to a useful height.\u003c\/strong\u003e It reaches screening height in two to three seasons, faster than most native shrubs of the same size.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy and wind tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e Comfortable from subtropical gardens through to cool temperate districts that get regular winter frost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screening and hedging.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.2m apart for a soft screen that closes in two to three seasons. It clips well enough for a loose hedge, though a hard formal shape is not its strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMass planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e Groups of five or more at 1.2m centres read as a purple drift in spring and a grey green mound the rest of the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e A single plant beside a path or a seat puts the scent within reach and gives one strong show a year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Oval Leaf Mint Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to light shade, with best flowering in full sun. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens and handles frost once established. In hot inland gardens give it afternoon shade, because it prefers a cool root run.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Free draining soil is not negotiable. Mint bushes suffer quickly in wet ground, so raise the bed on clay, add coarse compost and mulch 75mm deep to keep roots cool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water deeply twice a week through the first summer, then weekly in dry spells; it is not a plant to leave entirely unwatered. A low phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring is plenty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune straight after flowering, taking up to a third off and always cutting into leafy growth. Skip this and the plant goes woody and open early. Even with good pruning, expect a useful life of six to ten years rather than decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe grow it in tube and in 140mm pots sold in packs of 10. Both arrive as young single stemmed plants, and the 140mm pack is the sensible buy for a screen because the price per plant drops sharply. Tube stock catches up within a season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants travel upright and are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Tip prune once on planting to force branching low down. Expect 60cm to 80cm of growth in the first full warm season and a real flowering display in the second spring. Every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare options in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/screening-plants-2m-to-4m\"\u003escreening plants 2m to 4m\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse the wider range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead how to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/how-to-create-a-great-hedge-and-keep-it-looking-sharp\"\u003eplant and maintain a hedge\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSee more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bee-and-butterfly-plants\"\u003ebee and butterfly plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it for a screen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1.2m apart in a single row. That gives each plant room to fill out sideways while the canopies still knit together within two or three seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I keep it smaller than 2.5m?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. An annual prune after flowering holds it comfortably at 1.5m to 2m, and the plant stays denser for it. Always cut into leafy wood, never into bare stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs the mint scent strong enough to notice?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly when the leaves are touched or crushed, not from across the garden. Plant it where people brush past if the scent is part of the appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51647808667967,"sku":"PRO-OVA-tube","price":10.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":54140081111359,"sku":"PRO-OVA-140MM-P10","price":178.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Oval-Leaf-Mint-Bush-Prostanthera-ovalifolia.png?v=1794662998"},{"product_id":"alpine-mint-bush-prostanthera-cuneata","title":"Alpine Mint Bush - Prostanthera cuneata","description":"\u003cp\u003eAlpine Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera cuneata\u003c\/em\u003e) is an Australian native from the high ranges of New South Wales and Victoria, a bushy, spreading shrub 50cm to 1.5m high and about 1m wide. Its tiny evergreen leaves smell of mint when crushed, and in summer and autumn it is covered in freckled white flowers that are lilac on the outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA tough alpine native.\u003c\/strong\u003e It grows with snow gums in the high country, and tolerates frost and snow once established.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMint-scented foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e Crush the tiny leaves for a sharp, aromatic hit that explains the common name.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNectar-rich flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Summer and autumn blooms feed bees and butterflies, which suits wildlife and cottage gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpreads sideways.\u003c\/strong\u003e It usually grows wider than tall, which suits low hedges and borders.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResponds well to pruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e A yearly trim after flowering keeps it dense and renews the growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal low hedge.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 80cm apart for a soft, billowing hedge of around 1m. Because it tends to grow sideways, it knits together well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMixed borders and cottage gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e The small leaves and freckled flowers sit comfortably among perennials and other natives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature shrub.\u003c\/strong\u003e A single plant beside a path or seat gives a mounded shape and fragrance you can reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e The nectar-rich flowers add summer and autumn food for pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Alpine Mint Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Some shade from full summer sun is ideal. It copes with frost and snow once established, so cool temperate and warm temperate gardens suit it best. In hot, humid regions it is harder to keep, and afternoon shade and sharp drainage matter more than anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Free draining soil. In the wild it grows in light, sandy, stony soil on granite. On clay, raise the bed and work in coarse sand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water well until established, then give extra water in times of low rainfall. Feed with a controlled release native fertiliser once a year, after flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e It grows quickly. Prune by about one third each year after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain the shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Alpine Mint Bush as tube stock: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once potted on or planted out. Plants travel upright. Plant them soon after they arrive in a spot with some summer shade, then mulch and water them in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as on backorder, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-cool-climates\"\u003ePlants for cool climates\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/fragrant-plants\"\u003eFragrant plants for the garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/designing-a-native-australian-garden-to-attract-wildlife\"\u003eDesigning a native garden to attract wildlife\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does it get?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween 50cm and 1.5m high and about 1m wide. It usually grows sideways rather than upright.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it cope with frost and snow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, once established. It grows naturally in the alpine country of New South Wales and Victoria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I prune it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a year straight after flowering. Take back about one third to encourage new growth and keep the shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790871167295,"sku":"PRO-CUN-tube","price":11.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/alpine-mint-bush-prostanthera-cuneata.jpg?v=1792210610"},{"product_id":"mini-pink-round-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-rotundifolia-mini-pink","title":"Mini Pink Round-leaf Mint Bush - Prostanthera rotundifolia 'Mini Pink'","description":"\u003cp\u003eMini Pink Round-leaf Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera rotundifolia\u003c\/em\u003e 'Mini Pink') is a compact form of a south-eastern Australian native, reaching about 1m high and 75cm to 1m wide. Soft green foliage gives off a herbal mint scent when brushed, and in spring the bush is covered in purple-pink flowers. It is the version to grow when the full sized round-leaf mint bush would not fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA compact form.\u003c\/strong\u003e At around 1m by 1m it fits small gardens and even a large container, where its bigger sibling would be too large.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA scent you can brush past.\u003c\/strong\u003e The soft green leaves release a minty, herbal fragrance, so plant it where you will touch it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMasses of spring flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Purple-pink blooms cover the bush in spring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrows under eucalypts.\u003c\/strong\u003e It copes with the dappled shade beneath eucalypt trees, where many shrubs struggle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGood for sensory spaces.\u003c\/strong\u003e Scent, soft leaves and flowers make it a favourite for cottage and sensory gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeside paths and seats.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant it where you can brush against it. The scent is strongest on warm days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow hedge.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 75cm apart for a soft, informal hedge of about 1m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnder trees and in mixed borders.\u003c\/strong\u003e It suits the dappled light under eucalypts and sits well beside other natives and cottage plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge containers.\u003c\/strong\u003e A pot of 40cm or more gives it free drainage and a home on a patio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Mini Pink Round-leaf Mint Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Some shade from full summer sun suits it best. It tolerates a light frost once established, and does best in temperate gardens. In hot, humid summers, afternoon shade and sharp drainage matter more than anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Free draining, light and sandy, but moist and rich in organic matter. Add compost, and avoid heavy clay or sites that stay wet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water well until established. Water through prolonged dry spells: mint bushes dislike wet roots but wilt if they get too dry. Feed with a controlled release native fertiliser once a year, after flowering or pruning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune by about one third each year after flowering to encourage new growth and a dense, pleasing shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Mini Pink Round-leaf Mint Bush as tube stock: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once potted on or planted out. Plants travel upright and settle best if planted soon after arrival into a spot with some summer shade, then mulched and watered in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as on backorder, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-natives\"\u003eMore Australian native plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants for pots and containers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/fragrant-plants\"\u003eFragrant plants for gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/most-fragrant-plants-a-guide-to-aromatic-gardening\"\u003eMost fragrant plants for Australian gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Mini Pink get?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 1m high and 75cm to 1m wide, much smaller than the full sized round-leaf mint bush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow it in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Use a large container of free draining mix and water it steadily, because mint bushes hate wet roots but wilt quickly when dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it cope with frost?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt tolerates a light frost once established. In colder gardens, choose a sheltered position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790871298367,"sku":"PRO-ROT-MINIPI-tube","price":13.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/mini-pink-round-leaf-mint-bush-prostanthera-rotundifolia-mini-pink.jpg?v=1792210615"},{"product_id":"purple-haze-rough-mint-bush-prostanthera-denticulata-purple-haze","title":"Purple Haze Rough Mint Bush - Prostanthera denticulata 'Purple Haze'","description":"\u003cp\u003ePurple Haze Rough Mint Bush (\u003cem\u003eProstanthera denticulata\u003c\/em\u003e 'Purple Haze') is a low, dense Australian native shrub growing 40cm to 50cm high and 50cm to 75cm wide. Soft green foliage smells of menthol when brushed, and in spring it is covered in purple-lilac flowers. It is bushier and more upright than its straggly parent, and small enough for a pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDenser than the species.\u003c\/strong\u003e A bushier, more upright habit than the parent plant, with longer leaves and a deeper flower colour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMenthol-scented leaves.\u003c\/strong\u003e Brush the soft green foliage and it releases a cool, minty fragrance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMasses of purple-lilac flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spring brings a haze of flowers over the whole bush.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmall and versatile.\u003c\/strong\u003e At half a metre high it suits rockeries, planters and low borders.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA native for sensory gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Scent, texture and spring colour make it a good fit for cottage and sensory plantings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow hedge and borders.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 50cm apart in a row for a low, informal hedge or border edge of about 50cm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries.\u003c\/strong\u003e The low, wide shape and free draining needs suit a rockery with sandy, gravelly soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanters and pots.\u003c\/strong\u003e Compact enough for containers, where it can sit beside a door or seat and release its scent as you pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCottage gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It combines well with small perennials and other natives in a mixed bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Purple Haze Rough Mint Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Some shade from full summer sun suits it best. It tolerates a light frost once established, and does best in temperate gardens. In hot, humid summers, afternoon shade and sharp drainage matter more than anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Free draining soil. The parent species grows in sandy, gravelly soil in the wild, so mix coarse sand into heavy ground or use a raised bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water well until established. Water through prolonged dry spells: mint bushes dislike wet roots but wilt if they get too dry. Feed with a controlled release native fertiliser once a year, after flowering or pruning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune by about one third each year after flowering to encourage new growth and a dense, pleasing shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Purple Haze Rough Mint Bush as tube stock and in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Tube stock is a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly and is the economical choice for a border run, while the 140mm pots give you a stronger plant to start with. Plants travel upright, and are best planted out soon after arrival.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as on backorder, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-natives\"\u003eMore Australian native plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003eRockery plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/fragrant-plants\"\u003eFragrant plants for gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/creating-a-beautiful-cottage-garden-in-australia-insiders-guide\"\u003eHow to create a cottage garden in Australia\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does it get?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout 40cm to 50cm high and 50cm to 75cm wide, so it stays low and compact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow it in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is compact enough for planters. Use a free draining mix and keep the moisture even, because it hates wet roots but wilts when dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does it smell like?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves have a soft menthol scent when brushed. Plant it where you will pass close to it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790871462207,"sku":"PRO-DEN-PURPLE-tube","price":15.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10) (Backorder)","offer_id":67790871494975,"sku":"PRO-DEN-PURPLE-140MM-P10","price":188.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/purple-haze-rough-mint-bush-prostanthera-denticulata-purple-haze.jpg?v=1792210619"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/collections\/Round-Leaf-Mint-Bush-Prostanthera-rotundifolia.jpg?v=1794696305","url":"https:\/\/nurserynearme.com.au\/collections\/mint-bushes.oembed","provider":"Nursery Near Me","version":"1.0","type":"link"}