( Trichostema dichotomum ), also commonly known as blue curls , is a small, aromatic annual plant native to eastern North America. While its common name suggests a close relation to true pennyroyal ( Mentha pulegium ), it is actually a distinct genus within the mint family ( Lamiaceae ) that shares a similar "pennyroyal-like" scent. Key Characteristics and Appearance
Bastard pennyroyal is most easily identified by its unique flowers and growth habit:
The flowers are typically a delicate blue or purple with five petals. The most striking feature is the four long, hair-like stamens that protrude and curl dramatically downward, giving the plant its other name, "blue curls".
It is a relatively short annual, typically growing between 6 to 18 inches tall. Habitat and Ecology
Like many mints, it has square stems and paired, opposite leaves. The plant is covered in fine hairs and oil-producing glands that make it sticky to the touch and give off a strong fragrance when crushed.
This plant is a specialist for harsh, well-drained environments: Trichostema dichotomum (Bastard pennyroyal)
( Trichostema dichotomum ), also commonly known as blue curls , is a small, aromatic annual plant native to eastern North America. While its common name suggests a close relation to true pennyroyal ( Mentha pulegium ), it is actually a distinct genus within the mint family ( Lamiaceae ) that shares a similar "pennyroyal-like" scent. Key Characteristics and Appearance
Bastard pennyroyal is most easily identified by its unique flowers and growth habit: bastard pennyroyal
The flowers are typically a delicate blue or purple with five petals. The most striking feature is the four long, hair-like stamens that protrude and curl dramatically downward, giving the plant its other name, "blue curls". ( Trichostema dichotomum ), also commonly known as
It is a relatively short annual, typically growing between 6 to 18 inches tall. Habitat and Ecology The most striking feature is the four long,
Like many mints, it has square stems and paired, opposite leaves. The plant is covered in fine hairs and oil-producing glands that make it sticky to the touch and give off a strong fragrance when crushed.
This plant is a specialist for harsh, well-drained environments: Trichostema dichotomum (Bastard pennyroyal)