Black Peppermint (Mentha x piperita vulgaris)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Mentha x piperita vulgaris 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 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, they are used as a flavouring in salads or cooked foods. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A strong peppermint flavour, they are used as a flavouring in salads or cooked foods.; This plant should not be used by pregnant women, see the notes above on toxicity.; An essential oil from the leaves and flowers is used as a flavouring in sweets, chewing gum, ice cream etc.

Habitat & North American Range

A natural hybrid, M. aquatica x M. spicata, found in moist soils in ditches, waste places etc. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)