Spearmint (Mentha spicata) Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate to High Height: 1-2 feet Description: Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a vigorous perennial herb known for its refreshing fragrance and culinary uses. It features bright green, serrated leaves and produces spikes of small, purple-tinged flowers in summer. Spearmint is valued for its aromatic foliage, commonly used in teas, beverages, and culinary dishes. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering. In Texas, Spearmint can be grown in containers or garden beds and is a favorite for attracting pollinators like bees. Planting Tips: Plant in moist, well-drained soil. Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring Nativity to Texas: No Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate Height: 6-12 inches Description: Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a low-growing perennial herb with small, oval-shaped leaves and tiny lavender to pink flowers in summer. It has a strong, minty fragrance and is traditionally used for its medicinal properties, such as insect repellent and digestive aid. Pennyroyal prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade. In Texas, it can be grown in herb gardens or along pathways, where its aromatic foliage adds both ornamental value and practical uses. Note: Pennyroyal is toxic and should not be ingested. We recommend it is used for its aromatic and ornamental properties. Planting Tips: Plant in moist, well-drained soil. Space plants 6-12 inches apart. Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring Nativity to Texas: No _____________________________________________________________________________________ Chocolate Mint (Mentha × piperita 'Chocolate') Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate to High Height: 12–18 inches Harvest Time: 60–90 days (harvest anytime once leaves are established) Description:Chocolate Mint is a vigorous, aromatic herb with dark green, slightly bronzed leaves that exude a subtle chocolatey aroma layered over classic mint. Excellent for teas, desserts, garnishes, or simply brushing your hand through for a refreshing scent, this mint spreads quickly and thrives in containers or garden beds. Its small purple flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting a vibrant garden ecosystem. Planting Tips: Plant in well-drained, moist soil—containers help control spread. Space plants 12–18 inches apart. Regularly trim to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering if used primarily for culinary purposes. Harvest leaves often to keep plants productive and flavorful. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Early Fall Nativity to Texas: No____________________________________________________________________________________ Strawberry Mint (Mentha spicata 'Strawberry') Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate to High Height: 12–18 inches Harvest Time: 60–90 days (harvest anytime once established) Description:Strawberry Mint is a delightfully fragrant mint variety with bright green leaves and a subtle fruity twist reminiscent of ripe strawberries. Perfect for teas, salads, desserts, and refreshing summer drinks, this low-growing herb spreads easily and thrives in containers. Its tiny lavender flowers bloom in summer, drawing in bees and butterflies and enhancing pollinator habitat. Planting Tips: Plant in moist, well-drained soil—containers recommended to control spreading. Space 12–18 inches apart. Harvest regularly to maintain flavor and shape. Trim flower heads if using for culinary purposes to keep flavor intense. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Early Fall Nativity to Texas: No ________________________________________________________________ Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate to High; prefers consistently moist soil Height: 18–24 inches Harvest Time: 60–90 days Description:Peppermint is a fast-growing, aromatic herb with deep green, serrated leaves and a strong, refreshing menthol scent. Widely used for teas, desserts, and medicinal purposes, it's a garden favorite that also helps deter pests like ants, aphids, and mice. The lavender-pink flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making peppermint both practical and pollinator-friendly. Planting Tips: Grow in containers or root barriers to prevent aggressive spreading. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage bushier growth. Cut back after flowering to rejuvenate plants. Prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Fall Nativity to Texas: No ______________________________________________________________ Green-Purple Silvester Mint (Mentha spicata 'Green-Purple Silvester') Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade Water Requirements: Moderate to High; prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil Height: 12–18 inches Harvest Time: 60–80 days Description:Green-Purple Silvester Mint is a visually striking spearmint cultivar with bicolor foliage—lush green leaves flushed with deep purple highlights. Its refreshing, sweet-mint flavor makes it ideal for teas, cocktails, and desserts, while its aromatic oils naturally deter pests. Spikes of pale lavender flowers attract pollinators such as bees and beneficial wasps, enhancing garden biodiversity. Planting Tips: Plant in containers or confined garden beds to manage spread. Trim regularly to prevent flowering and maintain leaf production. Provide consistent moisture and rich soil. Harvest in the morning for peak flavor and oil content. Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring or Fall Nativity to Texas: No
