Peppermint

Mentha × piperita – Peppermint

Peppermint is a vigorous, aromatic perennial herb prized for its refreshing flavor and strong mint fragrance. A natural hybrid between spearmint and watermint, peppermint produces dark green leaves rich in essential oils that are widely used fresh or dried in teas, desserts, beverages, herbal preparations, and culinary dishes.

Plants form dense clumps of attractive foliage on reddish-purple stems and spread readily through underground runners. Because of its vigorous growth habit, peppermint is often best grown in containers or confined garden areas where its spread can be controlled.

In summer, spikes of small lavender to pale purple flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Peppermint thrives in moist, fertile soil and performs well in full sun to partial shade. In colder climates, the foliage dies back during winter and returns vigorously in spring.

Easy to grow and highly productive, peppermint is an excellent addition to herb gardens, pollinator plantings, and edible landscapes.

Spacing: 18–24 inches
USDA Zones: 3–8

Plant Characteristics

• Pest Resistance: Excellent
• Disease Resistance: Very Good
• Drought Tolerance: Fair
• Heat Tolerance: Good
• Humidity Tolerance: Excellent
• Sun Tolerance: Very Good
• Wet Soil Tolerance: Good
• Shade Tolerance: Very Good
• No-Spray Potential: Excellent
• Salt Tolerance: Fair
• Fresh for Kids: Excellent
• Deer Resistance: Good
• Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
• Soil Type: Moist, Adaptable
• Edible Type: Leaves
• Self Fertile: Yes

This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Comments and observations are always welcome.