Mentha suaveolens

Mentha suaveolens, also known as apple mint, woolly mint or round-leafed mint, is a species of Mentha native to southern and western Europe including the Mediterranean region. It is a herbaceous, perennial plant with a characteristic aroma, and is used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.

Description

Mentha suaveolens is a perennial plant that grows up to 40–100 cm tall. The leaves are opposite, round to ovate, and are covered with fine hairs, which give the plant its characteristic woolly appearance. The flowers are small, white or pink, and are arranged in terminal spikes.

Distribution and habitat

Mentha suaveolens is native to southern and western Europe, including the Mediterranean region. It is also naturalized in northern Africa, North and South America, and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and woodland edges.

Uses

Mentha suaveolens is used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and analgesic properties. It is also used in culinary applications, particularly in the preparation of mint sauce, mint julep, and certain types of mint tea.

Cultivation

Mentha suaveolens is a hardy plant that prefers full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Taxonomy

Mentha suaveolens is a member of the genus Mentha within the family Lamiaceae. It is closely related to other species of mint, including Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Mentha piperita (peppermint).

See also

• List of culinary herbs and spices
• List of Lamiaceae genera