Best grown in rich, moist soils in full sun to part shade. Adapts to a wide range of soils except dry ones. Large plantings may be sheared after bloom to remove flower spikes and stimulate new vegetative growth. Soil barriers may be used to restrain rhizomatous spread if plants are grown in borders or other areas where spread is unwanted.
This mint (often called chocolate mint) is a rhizomatous, upright perennial which is most commonly grown as a culinary herb and/or ground cover. It typically grows to 2' tall and spreads by rhizomes to form an attractive ground cover. Features small, rounded to lance-shaped glossy dark green leaves tinged with burgundy. Terminal spikes of small lavender flowers in summer. Leaves have a chocolate-mint fragrance and taste and may be used in desserts or as a garnish. The x piperita hybrids are crosses between Mentha aquatica (watermint) and Mentha spicata (spearmint).
No serious insect or disease problems. Can be an aggressive spreader.
Herb gardens. Naturalize as a ground cover in moist informal areas such as pond/water garden margins or low open woodland areas.
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