About
A creeping, semi-evergreen perennial with strong peppermint scented, small, oval, mid-green leaves that are excellent for treating swelling and inflammation of mosquito bites. It rarely flowers but when it does, it produces small, pale pink flowers in terminal, globular clusters around the stem. This variety of mint is not edible.
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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
FragranceFoliage
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
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. This variety does tend to be less invasive than other mints. See mint cultivation for more information
PruningCut back after flowering in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillars and leafhoppers
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust