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Plant Profiles / Mint
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Mint
Mentha spp. · Spearmint, peppermint
A vigorous, aromatic herb for teas, drinks and cooking. Best grown in pots, where it can't take over the garden.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Grows well in part shade.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Water often; mint hates drying out.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-10–32°C (14–90°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy; dies back in cold.
Growth
Fast, spreading
SlowFast
Grows 30–60 cm.
Soil
Rich, moist mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Liquid fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Large amounts can upset pets' stomachs.
About this plant
Mint spreads by runners and is famously invasive in the ground. In pots it's easy and productive. Spearmint is sweeter; peppermint is stronger.
Best spots
Herb pots, balconies, kitchen windows and part-shaded spots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Mentha spp. |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Origin | Europe & Asia |
| Plant type | Perennial herb |
| Mature size | 30–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Flowers | Small lilac spikes |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic in quantity |
| Propagation | Division or cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest
Cut back
Divide
HarvestCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Rust spots | Cut back hard and dispose of leaves. |
| Leggy | Harvest often. |
| Wilting | Dry soil. |
| Root-bound | Divide yearly. |
| Flowering | Cut flowers off. |
Common questions
Why grow mint in a pot?
It spreads aggressively in the ground.
Can it grow in shade?
Yes, part shade.
How do I keep it bushy?
Harvest often.
Is it perennial?
Yes.
