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BogsHerbaceous Perennial

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

Other common names
churchwort
flea mint
see moreorgan herb
pudding grass

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H7
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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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