Peppermint

Growth habit

Herbaceous

Perennation

Long-lived polycarpic perennial

Native distribution

Europe

Biocultural value

Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans seasoned food with mint leaves. Roman women used it to hide alcohol-scented breath.

Location

Robison Herb Garden

Source of plant

Sandy Mush Herb Nursery, Bluestone Perennials, Well-Sweep Herb Farm

Description

To 3', usually glabrescent, often purple-tinged, pungent. Leaves petioled, lanceolate, to 2 1/2" long,acute, serrate. Flower spikes oblong, verticillasters congested, flowers sterile, calyx tubular, glabrous,teeth ciliate, corolla lilac-pink; summer blooming.

USDA Hardiness Zone

5

Special characteristics

fragrance, medicinal/pharmaceutical