Mentha aquatica
water mint
A marginal, aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial to 90cm in height, spread by long thin segmented rhizomes, often reddish-purple stems and very aromatic dark green leaves, and in summer produces rounded terminal spikes of tiny, pinkish-purple flowers
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
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 West–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Suckering
- 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
- Eurasia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in baskets in a large pond in water up to 25cm deep, or grow in muddy pool margins. Grow in full sun to encourage flowering. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not well managed. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible powdery mildews or mint rust if allowed to become too dry
Get involved
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