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BogsHerbs - CulinaryHerbaceous Perennial

Mentha aquatica
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Other common names
fish mint
Synonyms
Mentha subspicata
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
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 West–facing or North–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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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