An evergreen South European under-shrub with oblong lance-shaped leaves, and whorled spikes of white, blue, or pinkish flowers. The aromatic leaves and shoots are used as a condiment and for flavouring.

The flowering shoots are used to make expectorant infusions. Plants flourish in light soil, and are raised from seeds, cuttings, or division, and when established, require 1 ft. apart each way.