Ismenion

Ismenion is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae, commonly known as the mint family. The genus was first described by Linnaeus in 1753. Plants in the genus Ismenion are native to the Mediterranean region and parts of western Asia. They are characterized by their aromatic foliage and their tubular flowers, which are typically borne in whorls. The exact number of species within the genus Ismenion has varied over time as taxonomic classifications have been revised. Historically, several species were included under the Ismenion umbrella, but modern botanical consensus often places some of these into other genera, such as Salvia or Phlomis, based on genetic and morphological evidence.

The remaining species, or those traditionally recognized as Ismenion, are perennial herbs that often grow in rocky or arid habitats. Their leaves are typically simple and opposite, and possess a scent characteristic of many Lamiaceae members. The flowers are usually two-lipped, a common feature of the mint family, and can range in color from white and pale yellow to pink or purple. These plants are of interest for their potential ornamental value and, in some regions, have been used in traditional medicine, though scientific validation for these uses is often limited. The genus's distribution and specific ecological requirements contribute to its presence in certain Mediterranean ecosystems.