Persicaria odorata (Asian Mint)

Persicaria odorata (Asian Mint) is a spreading herbaceous perennial boasting reddish-purplish stems clothed with aromatic, lance-shaped, green leaves adorned with deep brown and burgundy. In late summer, spikes of tiny pink flowers are on display, however, they rarely bloom in cool climates. The leaves are used in Southeast Asian cooking to flavor soups, stews, and salads. They have a pungent, coriander-like aroma and a spicy, hot peppery flavor. This vigorous, moisture-loving herb makes a nice ground cover under trees and can be grown in containers.

• Grows up to 6-18 in. tall and wide (15-45 cm).
• Thrives in rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade in a sheltered position.
• This plant is very versatile and can be used as a groundcover, in beds and borders, cottage gardens, herb gardens, city gardens, or containers.
• Virtually pest and disease free. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Propagate by seed in autumn or spring; by division in autumn or spring; or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, which root easily in soil or water.
• Native to southeastern Asia.