Peppermint

Lamiaceae

Sterile hybrid of spearmint (M. spicata) × watermint (M. aquatica). Stronger, more menthol-forward flavor than spearmint. Cannot produce viable seed — spreads ONLY by underground runners. Same aggressive spreading habit and container requirement as spearmint. Hardy zones 3-8. Slightly less heat-tolerant than spearmint.

At a Glance

Days to Maturity

30–45 days

Sun

4+ hours

Full sun to partial shade

Spacing

18–24 "

Container

Yes

3+ gallon pot

Height

1–2 ft

Zone Planting Guide

Your USDA Zone:

Growing Guide

Germination

Optimal Temp 70°F

Watering

Weekly Water 1–1.5 "

Needs Moderate-high

Soil

pH Range 6–7

Soil Type Rich, moist, well-drained

Resilience

Heat: Low-moderate Cold: Very-high Drought: Medium

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Light feeder

Harvest

Same as spearmint. Higher menthol content — stronger flavor.

Sources

university NC State Extension horticultural Gardener's Path — Peppermint

More Herbs

Peppermint Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Peppermint vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

Zone 5A Zone 5B Zone 6A Zone 6B Zone 7A Zone 7B Zone 8A Zone 8B Zone 9A Zone 9B

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