About
A spreading perennial to around 50cm high with aromatic, yellowish-green leaves and bluey-purple flowers borne in terminal spikes on upright stems 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
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well drained soil in full or partial sun. May have the 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. Softwood cuttings may be taken in spring. Pieces of rhizome can be potted up at any time in the growing season and grown on until established then planted out
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to blue mint beetle, leafhoppers and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust