Japanese Mint (Mentha arvensis piperascens)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Mentha arvensis piperascens is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to October, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in salads or cooked foods, they have a strong taste of peppermint. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Used as a flavouring in salads or cooked foods, they have a strong taste of peppermint.; A herb tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves.; An essential oil from the plant is used as a flavouring in sweets and beverages.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet grasslands near rivers and lakes at elevations of 200 - 1100 metres in China. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)