Mentha

Mint
Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Deciduous, Evergreen, Ground covers, Herbs, Perennials

These Mediterranean natives spread rapidly by underground stems and can be quite invasive; to keep them in bounds, grow them in pots or boxes. Tough and unfussy, they grow almost anywhere but perform best with light, moist, medium-rich soil, regular water; and full sun or partial shade. Plants disappear in winter in colder part of range. Replant about every 3 years; propagate from runners.

Mentha requienii

Native to the Mediterranean, this creeping, mat-forming mint reaches only ½ in. high. Tiny, round bright green leaves give this plant a mossy appearance; leaves release a delightful minty or sagelike fragrance when bruised. Can be used as an aromatic filler between stepping-stones (won’t take heavy foot traffic). Bears tiny, tubular light purple flowers in summer.

Mentha spicata

Grows 1 to 3 ft. high. Dark green, toothed leaves are slightly smaller than those of Mentha x piperita. Leafy spikes of pale blue flowers. Use leaves fresh from the garden or dried, as flavoring for foods, cold drinks, jelly.

Mentha x gracilis

Grows 2 ft. tall. Smooth deep green leaves with yellow variegation have a spicy apple fragrance and flavor. Inconspicuous flowers. Use in flavoring foods. Foliage is excellent in mixed bouquets.

Mentha x piperita

This hybrid grows 3 ft. tall. Strongly scented, tooth-edged leaves to 3 in. long, dark green often tinged with purple. Small purplish flowers appear in 1 to 3-in. spikes. Leaves are good for flavoring tea.

Mentha x piperita citrata

Known as orange mint (crushed leaves have slight orange flavor) or bergamot mint, this plant grows to 2 ft. high and spreads as far as conditions permit. Has broad, 2-in.-long leaves and small lavender flowers. It is used in potpourris and in flavoring foods.