Japanese Mint (Corn Mint, Wild Mint)

Strong menthol flavour, source of Japanese menthol, used to flavour sweets, drinks, etc. Has medicinal uses too.

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils and situations so long as the soil is not too dry although this species tolerates much drier conditions than other members of the genus. Prefers a slightly acid soil. Grows well in heavy clay soils. A sunny position is best for production of essential oils, but it also succeeds in partial shade. Plants are hardy to at least -15°c. Most mints have fairly aggressive spreading roots and, unless you have the space to let them roam, they need to be restrained by some means such as planting them in containers that are buried in the soil. The whole plant has a very strong scent of peppermint. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. The flowers are very attractive to bees and butterflies. A good companion plant for growing near brassicas and tomatoes, helping to deter insect pests.