Labiates (Lamiaceae)

Most of the 2 300 members of the lamiaceae are herbaceous plants.

Due to their richness in essential oils, many of these species serve as spices (rosemary (Rosmarinus), sage (Salvia), marjoram (Majorana), balm (Melissa), mint (Mentha), origano (Origanum), thyme (Thymus)).

Most plants are characterized by an angulate stem axis and by decussate leaves. The petals of flowers are often fused with each other in a tubular way. The figure shows flowers of bugle (Ajuga reptans).