Distribution of the species
On Mt. Paggaio, it is observed in wet open places, and under plane trees near springs, mainly at low and medium altitudes (up to 950 m asl.).
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
With a significant number of individuals, in sites where it is recorded. Perennial, fragrant, upright herbaceous plant, up to 80 (-100) cm tall. The stem is covered with silky, grayish-white, curved hairs and branches at the top. Leaves opposite to each other, sessile, grayish pilose, oblong, lanceolate (as the name of the species indicates), with a sharp top and strongly serrated. The flowers have two lips (2-lipped), are violet and grow many together in groups (forming verticillasters), which appear along the upper part of the stem. It flowers from July to August. Aromatic and important beekeeping plant. It has a strong mint scent, hence called wild mint. Apart from its use in folk medicine as an antimicrobial, antispasmodic, it is also used in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. In England it is called horse mint because horses react unpleasantly to the strong smell of the plant.
Due to its relatively wide distribution on Mount Paggaio, no particular threats and pressures which would lead to a significant reduction in its population were observed.
Conservation status
Least Concern.
Conservation state
Assigned to the “LC-Least Concern” category by IUCN. However, this does not mean that it is safe or that it does not have a direct extinction risk.