About
A low-growing, spreading perennial mint to 45cm tall and up to 1m wide. Small, bright-green leaves are ovate, slightly downy, toothed and emit an unusual banana scent when crushed. Clusters of small, lilac flowers are borne 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 moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 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
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leafhoppers and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust