Harvesting of peppermint typically begins in July and continues through September.
peppermint
Mentha x piperita
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is a popular herbal plant found in temperate climates. It has a thin stem and rhizomatous root system and grows between 1 to 3 feet in height. The leaves are dark green, semi-oval and have a strong, menthol smell. It's small, pinkish-white flowers grow in clusters and are attractive to bees. Peppermint has several uses. It is a base for cosmetics and lotions, an essential oil for aromatherapy, a flavor for food and drinks, and can be used medicinally as an ingredient in antiseptic creams and ointments.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division
Hardiness Zone:
5
Flowers:
Showy, Purple Flowers In Summer
Sun:
Full sun, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Well-drained
Fruits:
green Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) should be watered deeply and regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Water every 1-2 weeks when soil is dry down to about 1-2 inches deep; more during periods of increased heat/sun and/or low rainfall. Soil should never be soggy. Water at the base of the plant and apply enough water that it reaches the root system. Reduce watering in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
sunlight
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is a plant species that does best in full sunlight. It is best to give the peppermint plants at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day. This can generally be achieved by ensuring the plant receives sunlight at least from mid-morning through mid-afternoon. Too much shade and the peppermint plant will become lanky and leggy. While the plant can tolerate a bit of shade, it will not tolerate prolonged periods of shade. It will also be more susceptible to disease and pests in such conditions.
pruning
Peppermint should be pruned regularly to encourage healthy growth. Pruning should typically be done in late spring or early summer before the plant begins flowering. During pruning, remove any dead or damaged branches, stems, and leaves. Cut back any overly long branches or stems to shape the plant and to encourage new growth. Pruning peppermint too severely or too often may reduce the potential for flowering and may weaken the plant. Hence, it is important to prune only a little at a time.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
Peppermint typically starts flowering in July.
Harvest Fruit
Harvesting of peppermint typically begins in July and continues through September.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?
Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.
Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?
No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.
