Peppermint
Mentha x piperita
Peppermint is a vigorous aromatic perennial herb, a natural hybrid of water mint and spearmint, prized for its cooling menthol flavor.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Keep soil consistently moist
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Peppermint is a fast-spreading perennial herb in the mint family, a naturally occurring hybrid between water mint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). It is celebrated for its strong, cooling menthol aroma and flavor.
Like other mints, peppermint spreads aggressively by underground runners, quickly forming dense colonies. For this reason it is often grown in containers to keep it in check.
Peppermint is one of the most economically important culinary and medicinal herbs, grown commercially for its essential oil as well as for fresh and dried leaves.
How to identify it
Peppermint is identified by its dark, toothed leaves and strong menthol scent.
- Leaves: Oval to lance-shaped, dark green (often purple-tinged), toothed, and smooth, with a sharp peppermint aroma when crushed
- Stems: Square, often reddish-purple, typical of the mint family
- Flowers: Small purple flowers in terminal spikes in summer
- Height: Reaches 30-90 cm (1-3 ft) tall
- Spread: Spreads vigorously by runners (stolons and rhizomes)
Care & growing
Peppermint is extremely easy, even invasive, given moisture.
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist; mint dislikes drying out
- Soil: Rich, moisture-retentive soil
- Temperature: Hardy perennial; dies back in winter and returns in spring
- Feeding: Light feeding keeps foliage lush
- Propagation: Very easy from runners, cuttings or division; even a stem in water will root. Containing it is the main task plant in pots or sunken barriers to stop it overrunning the garden. Note that peppermint is sterile and is not grown from seed.
Habitat & origin
Peppermint originated as a hybrid in Europe and is now naturalized across temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, typically along streams, ditches and other damp, disturbed ground.
It is cultivated worldwide in herb gardens and containers, and on a large commercial scale, especially in the United States, for peppermint oil used in flavorings, confectionery and cosmetics.
Uses & benefits
Peppermint is a leading flavor and aromatic herb.
- Culinary: Leaves flavor teas, desserts, sauces, candies and cocktails; the basis of peppermint flavoring
- Medicinal (traditional): Widely used for digestion, nausea and headaches; peppermint oil and menthol are used in many remedies
- Aromatic/Cosmetic: Menthol-rich oil features in toothpaste, gum, balms and toiletries
- Ecological: Summer flowers attract bees and other pollinators
Frequently asked questions
Why should I grow peppermint in a pot?
Peppermint spreads aggressively by underground runners and can quickly take over a garden bed. Growing it in a container or sunken barrier keeps it contained.
Can I grow peppermint from seed?
No. True peppermint is a sterile hybrid and does not come true from seed. It is propagated from cuttings, runners or division.
What is the difference between peppermint and spearmint?
Peppermint has a stronger, cooler menthol flavor, while spearmint is sweeter and milder. Peppermint is a hybrid that includes spearmint in its parentage.
How do I keep my peppermint bushy?
Pinch back the growing tips and harvest regularly. Cutting it back hard also encourages fresh, tender foliage and prevents it from getting leggy.
Peppermint guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Peppermint.
