About
Mentha _piperita, peppermint, is a strongly aromatic, herbaceous perennial with stems and leaves flushed with purple. Terminal spikes of tiny, pale-purple flowers are produced in late summer. The most widely grown mint for culinary use � the leaves yield peppermint oil. Can spread vigorously � best contained in a pot or basket.
About the genus
Mentha, the mints, are aromatic, rhizomatous perennials with opposite, toothed leaves and small, tubular flowers in spikes or whorls in summer. Widely grown as culinary herbs and ornamental border plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
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