About
A rhizomatous, deciduous perennial with edible lavender-scented, rounded dark green leaves with a purple and orange blush, and pale purple to pink flowers which appear in the 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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor, moist soil in full sun. May have to potential to become a nuisance; plant in deep containers and plunge these into the soil to restrict growth. See mint cultivation for further details
PruningCut back at the end of the growing season
PropagationPropagate by planting portions of rhizome any time during the growing season; pot these up until they are established. Root-tip cuttings can be taken in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to green mint beetle, blue mint beetle, mint moth and sage leaf hopper
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and a rust, especially during drought