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
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 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
Get involved
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