Mint Apple

Apple mint is a valueable culinary herb as it is regarded one of the best for cooking with. Its large, round, furry leaves withsand the cooking process very well, retaining flavour. Because of this it is also great for making teas. This variety will produce tall spears of light pink flowers that are adored by bees. As with all mints they can be invasive so we recommend to plant them in a pot if wanting to keep them contained.
 
Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens), with its refreshing aroma and delightful flavor, is a versatile herb cherished for its culinary uses. With its bright green leaves and invigorating scent, apple mint adds a burst of freshness to dishes, beverages, and garden landscapes alike.
 
Culinary Use:
Apple mint's crisp, fruity flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried to infuse a variety of dishes with a hint of minty sweetness. In culinary applications, apple mint adds a refreshing twist to salads, fruit salads, and beverages such as lemonade and iced tea. It can also be used to flavor sauces, marinades, and desserts, imparting a subtle minty aroma and taste. Whether used as a garnish or a key ingredient, apple mint enhances the flavor and appeal of any culinary creation.
 
Planting and Harvesting:
Apple mint is a hardy perennial herb that thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade. An excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. When planting apple mint, provide adequate spacing between plants to allow for optimal growth. Regular harvesting of the leaves encourages bushy growth and ensures a continuous supply of fresh foliage throughout the growing season. To harvest apple mint, simply snip off individual leaves or stems as needed. After flowering cut back flowering stems to ground level to encourage fresh new growth.
 
Medicinal Use:
Apple mint has a long history of medicinal use for promoting digestion, relieving nausea, and soothing respiratory ailments. Its aromatic leaves contain compounds such as menthol and rosmarinic acid, which have natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Apple mint tea, brewed from the leaves of the plant, is consumed as a digestive aid, helping to ease indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. It is also used to alleviate symptoms of colds, flu, and allergies, providing relief from congestion and respiratory discomfort. Additionally, apple mint's refreshing scent and cooling sensation make it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy and herbal remedies for promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
 
Ecological Benefits:
Apple mint is highly attractive to pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, with its fragrant flowers and abundant nectar. By planting apple mint in the garden, you can help support pollinator populations and promote biodiversity in the area. Bees, in particular, are drawn to the sweet scent of apple mint flowers and rely on them for food and nectar. In addition to its value as a pollinator plant, apple mint also provides habitat and food for various beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests. The dense foliage and aromatic scent of apple mint offer shelter and protection for insects and small animals, contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.
 
Genus: Mentha suaveolens
Aspect: Full Sun/Part shade
Type: Perennial
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 0.5 - 1 metres 
Spread: 1 - 1.5 metres