Coyote Mint does indeed spread! This beautiful subshrub has a natural tendency to expand its growth and fill out the surrounding area. It has a spreading habit, which means that it will gradually extend its branches and roots to occupy more space over time. This characteristic makes Coyote Mint an excellent choice for filling in gaps in your garden or creating a lush ground cover.
One of the reasons Coyote Mint is so successful at spreading is its ability to produce new shoots from its base. As the plant matures, it sends out runners or stolons that creep along the ground and take root at various points. These new roots then generate fresh shoots, which develop into new plants. This process allows the Coyote Mint to gradually colonize an area and create a dense and attractive carpet of foliage.
In my own experience, I have witnessed how Coyote Mint can quickly establish itself in a garden. I planted a small patch of this subshrub a few years ago, and now it has spread to cover a significant portion of the area. Its runners have reached out in different directions, and new shoots have emerged, creating a lovely and fragrant display.
The spreading habit of Coyote Mint can be both a blessing and a challenge for gardeners. On the positive side, it means that you can easily propagate more plants by dividing the existing clumps or transplanting the new shoots. This can be a cost-effective way to expand your garden or share the beauty of Coyote Mint with others.
However, if you are looking to contain the spread of Coyote Mint, you will need to be proactive in managing its growth. Regular pruning can help to keep the plant in check and prevent it from encroaching on other areas of your garden. By cutting back the runners and removing any unwanted shoots, you can maintain the desired size and shape of the plant.
It’s worth noting that Coyote Mint’s spreading habit can also make it a valuable addition to naturalistic or wildflower gardens. Its ability to fill in bare patches and form dense stands of foliage makes it an excellent choice for creating a more natural and informal look. Additionally, the delicate lavender flowers of Coyote Mint attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the ecological value of your garden.
Coyote Mint is a subshrub that spreads through the production of runners and new shoots. Its ability to colonize an area and create a dense ground cover makes it an appealing choice for gardeners. Whether you want to propagate more plants or manage its growth, Coyote Mint’s spreading habit can be both advantageous and manageable with proper care and maintenance.
