A cool, menthol-rich sterile hybrid of spearmint and watermint — vigorous and best confined to a pot so its runners don't take over. Grown from cuttings rather than seed.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 60 cm tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Peppermint
Botanically, Mentha x piperita is a fast-growing edible plant in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall at maturity, with aromatic foliage.
Where to grow Peppermint
Peppermint suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Peppermint provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Peppermint prefers consistently moist soil. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Peppermint in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Peppermint in the garden
Peppermint earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers, feeding bees and pollinators and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Peppermint with species that also favour consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Peppermint
Plant Sale lists Peppermint as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
