Peppermint has played an important role as a herb, tea and medicinal plant since it was discovered in England in the 17th century. The herb is easy to grow in the garden and on the balcony and is therefore grown worldwide.
What are the main characteristics of peppermint?
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is a perennial, hardy plant that grows up to 90 cm high and bears small white-red flowers. It has an aromatic scent and prefers partially shaded locations. The main harvest time is right before flowering, as this is when essential oils are at their highest.
Botanical data
- Latin name: Mentha x piperita
- Varieties: up to 14 varieties and numerous sub-varieties
- Plant family: Mint family
- Genus: Mint (Mentha)
- Origin: England as a chance crossing
- Height: up to 90 centimeters high in the open field
- Leaves: elongated, slightly jagged edge
- Leaf color: mostly green, but also almost white or very dark
- Stems: smooth, slightly hairy
- Flower: small white-red flowers in the shape of a spike
- Aroma: very aromatic, fresh scent
- Flowering period: June to August
- Plant parts used: leaves
- Age: perennial up to five years and longer
- Winter hardy: tolerates temperatures down to minus 20 degrees
- Distribution: almost worldwide
What you need to know about growing in the garden and in pots
Peppermint is quite robust and can be grown outdoors as well as in a pot on a balcony or terrace.
The plant requires nutritious, well-drained soil. It prefers a partially shaded location. Direct sunlight affects the aroma.
When choosing a location, make sure that peppermint does not get along with itself or chamomile. You should also keep your distance from other mint family. It makes sense to change location after three years at the latest to limit the spread of diseases.
Harvesting peppermint
Peppermint can be harvested at any time. The best harvest time is directly before flowering, as the proportion of essential oils is particularly high then. If peppermint is to be preserved, this harvest time is preferable.
Even after flowering, the leaves can be safely consumed or made into tea. They do not contain any toxins, but taste a little more bitter than before they bloomed.
Propagate peppermint
Peppermint is usually propagated via runners and cuttings. Root division is also possible. It is quite difficult to propagate by sowing as the germination capacity of the seeds is not very high.
Tips & Tricks
The healing properties of peppermint still play a major role today. The plant was named “Medicinal Plant of the Year” in 2004.