Horsemint (Mentha longifolia)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Mentha longifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in salads, chutneys and cooked foods. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Peppermint-scented, they are used as a flavouring in salads, chutneys and cooked foods.; A herb tea is made from the leaves.; An essential oil obtained from the leaves and flowering tops is used as a food flavouring in sweets etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste places and damp roadsides. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)