About
A variable herbaceous perennial about 10-60cm tall, with creeping rhizomes, and often reddish-purple stems bearing slightly hairy, aromatic mid-green leaves to 6cm long, held in pairs. The flowers are small, tubular andd pale mauve, in ball-shaped clusters forming a spike in summer.
About the genus
Mentha are aromatic, rhizomatous perennials with opposite, toothed leaves and small tubular flowers in spikes of whorls in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well drained soil in full or partial sun. May have to potential to become a nuisance; restrict the root run in a deep container and plunge into the ground, or plant in a well chosen site where it can grow unrestricted. See mint cultivation for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division or by cuttings at any time of year
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free