There are many patchouli species native to the tropical regions of Asia, but the one most commonly grown in the United States is Pogostemon cablin. This is an aromatic and tender perennial herb from the mint (Lamiaceae) family.Cultivated on a commercial level predominantly for its widely used perfumed oil, this can be an interesting, shrubby addition to gardens where temperatures are suitably warm.You may have come across patchouli leaves in dried potpourri without realizing it. Also used in cooking, they aren't as popular as some of their relatives—like oregano and mint.The leaves and the oil derived from patchouli flowers are also popular in homeopathic medicine and aromatherapy. The oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, is an effective natural insect repellant, and can be found in perfumes and cosmetics.Although they aren't showy flowers, their full, shrub-like qualities can be useful for adding contrast and filling up space in beds and borders that benefits from year-round warmth. They typically grow to reach up to three feet in height and can grow even taller if conditions are right. They fit well in informal, herb, and cottage garden settings.They grow in spreading mounds and the little white flowers that appear in the fall and the green foliage, with purple hues, will add a pleasant fragrance in your yard.Patchouli Flowers won't be for every garden, though. They're frost-sensitive and don't do well in temperate climates where cold snaps are common. Plus, these plants aren't exceptionally long-lived. Typically, they only last a few years.They do, however, grow well in containers on window sills, but they need plenty of space because of their spreading qualities and height.
