Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

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

Mentha pulegium is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September 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. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Used as a flavouring in salads or cooked foods.; A spearmint-like flavour, though rather coarser, it is not used very often in Britain.; A herb tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist meadows and sandy soils by streams etc. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)