Description
M. x piperita – Peppermint – This vigorous perennial is a cross between M. aquatica and M. spicata grows 12-36″ tall and 24-36″ wide. From red hairy, red-purple-tinged stems it carries oval shaped, aromatic, toothed, mid green and reddish green leaves, to 3 ½” long. In spring it bears terminal whorls of tubular, purple flowers, 1/8″ long. Used in culinary.
f. citrata – M. odorata – M. piperita var. citriodora – Eau de Cologne Mint- Lemon Mint – has hairless stems and thin, ovate, eau-de-cologne scented leaves.
Grow in moderately fertile, humus rich, moist but well drained soil in full sun or dappled shade. Protect from excessive winter moisture, do not allow to dry out in summer. Divide in spring.
Prone to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
Zones 3-7
