Mentha pulegium
pennyroyal
A highly aromatic, creeping perennial producing a mix of upright and spreading stems. Tiny lilac flowers are produced in whorls in summer. This variety of mint is not edible
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Mentha are aromatic, rhizomatous perennials with opposite, toothed leaves and small tubular flowers in spikes of whorls in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- W & C Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist soil, in any situation. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See mint cultivation for more information
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars and leafhoppers
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust
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