Mentha spicata

• 
  RHS Plants for Pollinators plants

  This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.

  It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.

  • Garden Plants
  • Wildflowers
  • Plants of the World

Cultivation

Grow in any moist soil, in any situation. Water newly planted mint until established and if grown in pots in summer. In damp soils in flower beds, the plants may have the potential to become a nuisance; restrict the root run in a deep container and plunge into the ground, or plant in a well chosen site where it can grow unrestricted. Plants grown in pots will benefit from splitting and dividing every few years. For more information see mint cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

• Cottage and informal garden
• Wildlife gardens
• City and courtyard gardens
• Patio and container plants

Pruning

Harvest young sprigs regularly to encourage bushy growth and cut back to 5 cm from the base after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to sage leafhopper, blue mint beetle and caterpillars

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust