Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' (Variegated Mint) — herb

Overview

Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' is a herb in the genus Mentha, part of the Q53476 family. Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include herb garden, container and ground cover.

About

Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' is a herb notable for its variegated leaves and a clear minty fragrance. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and tolerates full sun to partial shade. Hardy to H5 in the UK, it will cope with both sheltered and exposed positions. It flowers June to September.

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

In the garden

Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' is a variegated cultivar of Mentha grown for its patterned foliage and minty scent. Classified as a herb, it is used principally for leaf harvest and as an ornamental element where variegation is wanted. Flowering occurs June to September, after which foliage remains the main feature. Sit it in full sun or partial shade on a moist but well-drained soil; the plant tolerates acidic through alkaline pH so it will adapt to most garden soils. Exposure can be either sheltered or exposed and the plant is hardy (H5) in UK conditions. In dry weather, top up soil moisture to keep leaf colour fresh, and ensure containers have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. It works well in an herb garden, in containers by seating areas, or as a low ground cover where patterned leaves contrast with plain foliage. Containers are especially useful when you want to restrict the area it occupies. Positioning a pot near a path or doorway makes the minty fragrance accessible when leaves are brushed, and the variegated foliage makes individual plants straightforward to harvest and manage.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Mentha

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: moist, well-drained
Soil pH: acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist
Exposure: sheltered, exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: herb
Suggested uses: herb garden, container, ground cover
Fragrance: minty

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Mentha × rotundifolia 'Variegata'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, fertile soil and partial to full sun. Can be invasive if not contained.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: division,cuttings