Species apple mint
Green leaves with white hair, and lime-white stems.

apple mint

Mentha suaveolens

Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens) is an aromatic mint with attractive foliage and pleasant fragrance. The leaves are small, oval shaped and fuzzy with serrated edges. Its stem is square, whereas the flower spikes are white or purplish in color. This mint's flavor is similar to spearmint, with a hint of apple-like sweetness. Apple mint is a great addition to several dishes from salads to teas, ice-cream and desserts. Its minty aroma helps to freshen up the air and repel insect pests. Plant it either in the garden or a container for a decorative and functional addition to your home.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Pink to white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,yellow,brown Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Apple mint requires weekly watering; it should be watered enough so that the top 1-2 inches of soil are slightly moistened and are no longer bone dry. To ensure that the soil remains moist, water Apple mint deeply for several minutes once a week. It is important to note that Apple mint should never be allowed to dry out completely. Watering should be done only when the topsoil begins to feel dry. During the peak summer months, Apple mint may require more frequent watering. Additionally, Apple mint should be watered in the morning or evening to prevent wilting due to the hot sun.

sunlight

Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens) prefers sunlight for at least 6 or more hours of sun each day. This plant enjoys direct sunlight in the morning, or bright light in the afternoon. Apple mint can also tolerate some partial shade. This species will not reach its full potential if it does not get enough sun. Additionally, Apple mint also appreciates the heat of summer for its full flowering and flavor.

pruning

Apple mint should be pruned twice a year, once in spring and once in fall. Pruning in spring should be done just after the last expected frost of the season to help encourage new growth. In the fall, wait until after the first frost to prune the mint. When trimming, cut the stems to no more than 4-6 inches from the ground. This will help keep the plant within its desired shape and also prevent it from becoming invasive. Too much pruning reduces the size of the plant but can also reduce its flavor. Take care not to prune more than 1-third of the total plant or the leaves can become smaller than usual. After pruning, dispose of the cuttings so they don't spread and create new plants nearby.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Apple mint typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Apple mint typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Mentha suaveolens (apple mint) can begin as early as June and continue through August.

Hardiness Map