Nana
Mentha × piperita
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Nana (Mentha × piperita), commonly known as peppermint, is a perennial herb renowned for its vigorous growth and refreshing, minty aroma and flavor, making it a favorite in culinary and medicinal contexts worldwide. This hybrid mint, a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata), thrives in temperate regions, flourishing in moist, partially shaded environments. Its dark green leaves with serrated edges and small purple flowers attract a variety of pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in garden ecosystems. In agroecology, peppermint serves as a ground cover and companion plant, deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects. It is often included in herb spirals and guilds with plants like chamomile and yarrow, which enhance its growth and health. Historically, peppermint has been used in traditional medicine for its soothing properties, particularly for digestive and respiratory ailments. Its essential oil, rich in menthol, is a key ingredient in teas, candies, cosmetics, and medicinal preparations.
Growing Details
Peppermint prefers a cool, moist environment with partial to full sun. Plant in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Prepare soil by adding organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include chamomile and yarrow, which enhance growth and deter pests. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soil. Harvest leaves just before flowering for the best fla
Edible Parts
Leaves
Stem
Apical Bud
Flowers
Oil
Tags
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Winter Edible
Oil
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Mentha × piperita</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> — Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Europe, Middle East
applicable geo region: Worldwide
language used: sr
Flowering:
?
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Peppermint leaves can be used fresh or dried in various culinary applications, including teas, beverages, jellies, fruit salads, and desserts. The essential oil extracted from the leaves is used in cooking and baking for flavoring. Fresh leaves are best harvested in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated.
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: Peppermint oil is used to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, soothe digestive issues, freshen breath, and relieve headaches. It possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties and serves as an analgesic and decongestant. Caution is advised as excessive consumption can cause headaches, a sensation of tightness, drowsiness, or skin irritation.
health concerns: No major health issues, but excessive consumption may lead to headaches, a sensation of tightness, drowsiness, or skin irritation.
other uses: Peppermint oil is widely used in cosmetics, soaps, toothpaste, and hair products for its refreshing and stimulating properties. It also acts as a natural pesticide.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Mentha × piperita</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Mentha × piperita
common names: nana, peppermint
family: Lamiaceae
sub family: Nepetoideae
tribe: Mentheae
sub tribe:
genus: Mentha
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20°C / 10°C / 25°C
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20°C / 5°C / 30°C
water demands: Medium
humidity: Low
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
█
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
▁
(1/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 0 years
succession:
growth rate:
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
pH preference:
Saline
flower type:
growth details: Peppermint prefers a cool, moist environment with partial to full sun. Plant in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Prepare soil by adding organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include chamomile and yarrow, which enhance growth and deter pests. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soil. Harvest leaves just before flowering for the best fla
Potential Disturbances: Peppermint can be affected by aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and cutworms. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids. Use neem oil or garlic spray for spider mites. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Regularly inspect plants and remove any affected leaves.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...