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GENERAL
Origin
:
temperate,
sub-Mediterranean
Humidity
:
semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
humid
Propagation :
layer, cuttings
Maintenance :
moderate
CONDITIONS
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
high
Salinity/ppm :
moderate (1800
ppm)
Hardiness
:
-15°C
SHAPE
Type
:
perennial
Height
:
0.3 m-0.6 m
Spread
:
0.4 m-0.8 m
Foliage
:
deciduous
FLOWER
Colour
:
pink
Size
:
1.5 cm
Period
:
August -
September
Smell
:
aroma, strong,
leaf, spicy
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
nutlet
Fruit size
:
0.7 cm
Peppermint is the common name for this herb and perennial plant. Mentha piperita is a cultivar
derived from Mentha crispa and Mentha aquatica. It is known only in cultivation, so that the
natural distribution cannot be named. This Mint grows to a height of 60 cm. Its leaves are ovate
and fresh green, and the aromatic foliage is deciduous. The flowers appear in summer as pink
spikes. Mentha loves a sunny location, but with good irrigated soil. For a favoured location, it
can be used as grouped plantation or groundcover at pond edges or in swamps. With sun, the
aromatic oils in the plant will be optimally developed. The leaves can be used for fresh mint tea,
even when dry. In Arab countries, peppermint tea is served after dinner because of its good dige-
stive properties, in addition to the refreshing taste. It has an anti-bacterial function; the aromatic
oil helps with headaches and can be inhaled to alleviate colds. Mentha is not suitable for babies,
because the oil is too strong. Propagation can be done by runners and cuttings which root easily.
Sometimes, if the location meets the plant’s requirements, Mentha can be invasive, but can be
easily controlled by reducing the water supply. Pruning from time to time, and at the beginning
of a new season, will support the dense growth. In Arriyadh, Peppermint is highly attractive in
private gardens next to ponds, because it can be harvested directly for a fresh tea. It is often found
growing on farms.
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Mentha x piperita,
Lamiaceae
Mint,
na anah