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Native Herbal Tea Plants for California and Oregon – Week 3: Coyote Mint (Monardella villosa)

Jessica Wright

Coyote Mint, Monardella Villosa
Coyote Mint, Monardella Villosa, in bloom. Photo credit: John Rusk, J20161013-0008—Monardella villosa ssp franciscana—RPBG, (CC BY 2.0).

Coyote Mint is a Native Herbal Tea Plant that Comforts and Uplifts

Coyote Mint (Monardella villosa) is a wonderful addition to any native garden and herbal tea collection in California and Oregon, with its sunny, uplifting aroma and flavor. Its subtle minty notes are complemented by citrusy and grassy accents, making for a unique taste I hope you'll experience! Steep a fresh sprig or a teaspoon of dried leaves per 8 ounces of boiling water for 5–10 minutes to create a comforting cup of tea, adjusting the amount to suit your taste. Like many herbal plants, Coyote Mint also offers medicinal benefits. Along with its close relative Monardella odoratissima (both commonly known as Coyote Mint and Pennyroyal), it has been traditionally used by Native peoples to soothe stomach ailments and treat colds and fevers. Note: This tea is not recommended for pregnant individuals.



Coyote mint growing in the garden with other California native plants.
Coyote Mint, Monardella Villosa, growing in the garden (rear left) alongside Foothill Penstemon, Everett's Choice California Fuchsia, and Apricot Mallow. Photo by Jessica Wright, Earth & Spirit. All right reserved.

Growing Coyote Mint in the Garden

Coyote Mint (Monardella villosa) is native to woodland and forest openings and edges, as well as coastal scrub habitats from California to Oregon. In the garden, it thrives in both beds and pots, preferring part shade in inland areas and full sun in coastal locations. This perennial plant grows 1–2 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide. Its dark green, slightly fuzzy, fragrant leaves and vibrant purple flowers bloom in summer, offering both visual appeal and a sensory delight.

Coyote Mint is quite drought-tolerant and thrives in a variety of soil types. Once established, it requires minimal care and will do well with water about twice a month. Its colorful blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a fantastic choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.



Tips for Garden Care

To extend the blooming season, deadhead spent flowers after the initial bloom. I recommend leaving the last set of seedheads over winter for foraging birds and then prune the plant back by ⅓ to ½ in mid to late winter to promote a more compact and tidy appearance the following growing season. When timing your pruning, aim to maximize habitat value throughout the winter while ensuring it’s done before new spring growth begins to emerge.



Bring Native Herbal Tea Plants to Your Garden

If you’re inspired to incorporate native tea plants like Coyote Mint into your landscape, Earth & Spirit is here to help. Whether you’re seeking a consultation to brainstorm ideas or a full landscape design, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional spaces that support local wildlife and provide year-round enjoyment.


As always, proper plant identification is essential before consumption, whether wild or garden grown. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions, consult your healthcare provider before using herbal teas.


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