Mentha spicata var. crispa (Curly Mint)
Mentha spicata var. crispa, also known as Curly Mint or Crinkled Mint, is an aromatic perennial boasting dark green, fragrant, and crinkled or curled leaves, giving the plant its distinctive appearance. The plant is highly aromatic and releases a strong, minty fragrance when crushed. It is widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Mentha spicata var. crispa, also known as Curly Mint or Crinkled Mint, is an aromatic perennial boasting dark green, fragrant, and crinkled or curled leaves, giving the plant its distinctive appearance. Spikes of tiny, white to light pink or purple flowers are borne above the foliage in summer. Native to Europe, Curly Mint spreads by creeping rhizomes to form an extensive colony. The plant is highly aromatic and releases a strong, minty fragrance when crushed. It is widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Curly Mint Culinary Uses
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A2, A3 |
| Plant Type | Herbs, Perennials |
| Plant Family | Mentha – Mint |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid,Late) |
| Height | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
| Spread | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
| Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average, High |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained |
| Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Garden Uses | Ground Covers, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |