Overview
Mentha aquatica is a suckering bogs in the genus Mentha, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Mentha aquatica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include culinary and medicinal.
About
Mentha aquatica, commonly known as water mint, is a suckering, herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae family. It typically grows to between 0.1 and 0.5 metres in height with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full size in 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in poorly-drained clay or loam soils with a range of pH levels, and it can be grown in full sun or partial shade across all garden aspects. Water mint is well-suited to boggy conditions and is notable during the summer season.
About the genus
Mentha, also known as mint, is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is estimated that 18 to 24 species exist, but the exact distinction between species is unclear. Hybridization occurs naturally where some species' ranges overlap.
Wikipedia contributors, "Mentha", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mentha
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Mentha
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, North-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Mentha aquatica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bogs, Herbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Suckering
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Culinary, Medicinal
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Mentha aquatica
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- Leafhoppers, Caterpillars
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews, Mint rust
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Mentha aquatica?
Mentha aquatica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Mentha aquatica need?
Mentha aquatica grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How big does Mentha aquatica grow?
Mentha aquatica reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Mentha aquatica hardy in the UK?
Mentha aquatica has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Mentha aquatica?
Division in spring or autumn.
More in the Mentha genus
Browse all Mentha →
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