Botanical data
- Latin name: Mentha x piperita
- Varieties: up to 14 varieties and numerous sub-varieties
- Plant family: Mint
- Genus: Mint (Mentha)
- origin: England as a chance crossroads
- Height: up to 90 centimeters high outdoors
- Leaves: elongated, slightly serrated edge
- Leaf color: mostly green, but also almost white or very dark
- Stems: smooth, not very hairy
- blossom: 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
Interesting facts about cultivation in the garden and pot
Peppermint is quite robust and can be grown outdoors as well as in a pot on the balcony or terrace.
also read
- The side effects of peppermint
- The flowering period of the peppermint begins in June
- When is the best time to cut peppermint?
The plant needs nutritious, well-drained soil. She prefers a partially shaded one Location. Direct sunlight affects the aroma.
When choosing a location, it is important to ensure that peppermint does not get along with itself or with chamomile. You should also keep your distance from other mint family. A change of location after three years at the latest makes sense to prevent the spread of Diseases contain.
Peppermint can be harvested at any time. The best harvest time is right before flowering, as the proportion of essential oils is particularly high then. if Peppermint shelf life should be made, 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 bit tart than before flowering.
The peppermint is usually propagated via runners and cuttings. Root division is also possible. By sowing it is very difficult to multiply because the seeds do not germinate very well.
Tips & Tricks
The medicinal properties of peppermint still play a major role today. In 2004 the plant was named “Medicinal Plant of the Year”.
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