Labiatæ

Labiatæ (Lamiaceæ of Lindley), a natural order of exogenous plants, containing almost 2500 known species, mostly natives of temperate climates. They are herbaceous, or more rarely half-shrubby, and have 4-cornered stems and opposite branches; also opposite leaves, without stipules, abounding in receptacles of volatile oil. The flowers are often in cymes or heads, or in whorls, or sometimes solitary. A general characteristic of this order is an aromatic fragrance, which in many species is very agreeable, and makes them favourites in our gardens; but some are weeds with an unpleasant odour. Many are natives of Britain. Some are used in medicine, and others in cookery for flavouring. Mint, Marjoram, Rosemary, Lavender, Sage, Basil, Savory, Thyme, Horchound, Balm, Patchouli, Germander, and Dead Nettle are examples of this order.