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Physical description: Peppermint can reach 12 to 24 in. tall and spreads
indefinitely. The leaves are 2½ in. long, are toothed
about the edges, and have a medium green color. The distinctive
feature of the leaves is their strong peppermint fragrance. Flowering
occurs in mid to late summer, and the flowers can have, depending
on the specimen, a lilac-pink to purple color. They are formed
of spikes 1 to 3 ft long.
Optimal growing conditions: Almost any kind of soil may be acceptable for
peppermint, and this species is especially tolerant of saturated
soils. The soil must be lightly moistened at all time, because
the plant performs less under drought conditions. Peppermint
prefers full sun to partial shade. Under good conditions, the
rate of growth is fast. Winter hardiness: Zones 3-8.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases: This plant has no serious disease or pest problems.
Use:
Peppermint can be used as a ground cover or in many gardens or
rock gardens. The fragrance of the leaves is generally appreciated,
and leaves have many medicinal uses.
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