Description
It was thought that peppermint (Mentha × piperita) belonged to a different species. Subsequently, it was discovered that the herb was actually a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata).
One of the earliest plants used in cooking, medicine, and rituals is this wonderfully fragrant plant. Popular mint has very black leaves and vivid purple stems. Summertime pale purple flower spikes that entice bees. Use as a garnish for fruit cups and sweet meals, or use in teas.
Habitat
In addition to the USA, Australia, Argentina, and Morocco, peppermint is also farmed on a lesser basis in numerous European nations. The USA is a leading producer of spearmint and peppermint.
Uses
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), various digestive issues, the common cold, sinus infections, headaches, and other ailments are among the illnesses for which peppermint is recommended. It is recommended to apply peppermint oil topically (to the skin) to treat conditions like headache, aches in the muscles, joint pain, and itching.
Cultivars
The flavor of Mentha x piperita ‘Chocolate Mint’ is similar to mint chocolate chip ice cream, and it features blossoms that open from the bottom up.
Citrus-scented Mentha × piperita ‘Citrata’ is sometimes known as orange mint.
Mentha × piperita ‘Crispa’ is a trailing plant that features delicate pale lavender blossoms along with brilliant green, crinkled foliage.
Fast-growing Mentha × piperita ‘Lavender Mint’ features dark green leaves, reddish stems, and many lavender blossoms. It works well in savory meat and veggie recipes.
The lovely bronze-green leaves of Mentha × piperita ‘Lime Mint’ smell of fresh lime.
The ground cover plant Mentha × piperita ‘Variegata’ yields violet flower spikes. There is a creamy white variegation on its green leaves.
Plant Care
- Light
Peppermint grows well in both full and partial shade. Unlike most herbs, it even tolerates a little shade.
- Soil
One of the greatest and worst things about peppermint is how adaptable it is—it can grow practically anywhere, which can be a problem. But it may and can grow anywhere, peppermint prefers rich, loamy, and wet soil, but it has been seen to grow beside trailside ditches and rugged rocks.
- Water
To ensure that your peppermint plant is healthy and full of flavor, keep the soil consistently moist. But take caution not to go overboard. Like other mints, peppermint cannot withstand moist soil or standing water. A plant can be killed or seriously damaged by having damp roots.
- Temperature and Humidity
Although peppermint is remarkably resilient, it cannot withstand prolonged cold snaps in frigid areas, USDA Cold Hardiness Zones 5 and lower. It may withstand minor frosts. Although 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit are best for its growth, it can tolerate temperatures both above and below that range with minimal harm. If you anticipate warmer temperatures, make sure the soil stays moist and keep an eye out for excessive growth caused by humid conditions.
- Fertilizer
Most herbs should not be fertilized, especially those of the genus Mentha. The oils found in flowers and leaves give plants their flavor. Instead of producing enormous, rich flowers and foliage with concentrated oils, growing them too quickly can result in modest, profuse growth with numerous blooms, leaves, and lanky stems. This variation in flavor between store-bought and cultivated herbs is often noticeable.
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