FORM herbs and shrubs secretes aromatic oils.

Genera     180   30 found in the USA   Species 3500 in our area 136 (Gray); 137 (B&B)⁴³

Distribution  Tropical and temperate - Mediterranean

Flowers often in spikes and whorls 2-lobed upper lip 3-lobed lower lip.

#Parts  2 lipped formed of 5 fused sepals 2-4 stamens Symmetry bilateral

Leaves opposite stems square, many, not all aromatic. Most common seasonings include peppermint, spearmint,sage, thyme.