The diverse mint species have been pampering our taste buds for thousands of years. A precise determination of their country of origin is therefore difficult if not impossible. If the definition of 'northern hemisphere' as an area of origin seems too global, you can get to know the current home countries of popular species and varieties in the following.
The stars of the mint species are at home here
Looking at the optimal location for mint, it becomes obvious why the herbal plant rarely thrives in Africa and Australia. Aroma princes, such as peppermint or Moroccan mint, only thrive in partially shaded locations with fresh, moist soil. They don't want to have anything to do with blazing sun and sandy soil. The home countries of the most popular species and varieties hold few surprises:
- Peppermint (Mentha ×?piperita): England, Germany, Spain, Balkan countries, Asia
- Moroccan Mint (Mentha spicata var. crispa 'Nane'): Morocco
- Water mint (Mentha aquatica): Europe, Macaronesia, Asia
- Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium): Europe, North Africa, Russia, China
- Spearmint (Mentha spicata): Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, Caucasus
- Round-leaved mint (Mentha suaveolens): Europe, Macaronesia, China, North Africa
Peppermint is a natural hybrid. This designation implies that two pure species have been crossed with each other in a natural way. This botanical trait is called hybridization, and over the course of evolution it has resulted in almost half of all mint hybrids not producing seeds. Peppermint, for example, can only be propagated by division or cuttings.
Mint rarities that thrive in Germany
Knowledgeable hobby gardeners and experienced breeders have succeeded in creating various mint varieties whose origins can neither be traced geographically nor botanically. In view of the unique taste experience, this circumstance is not a problem. Meet the best mint rarities here:
- Strawberry mint: a delicate variety with a scent reminiscent of Black Forest cake
- Chocolate Mint: The leaves smell like peppermint chocolate when touched lightly
- Orange Mint: an aromatic ingredient for fruity tea
The pineapple mint is particularly noteworthy. This variety impresses with white variegated leaves, an ornament for every perennial border and on the balcony.
tips and tricks
If you are looking for a mint species with ground cover qualities, you will find it in the Corsican mint. Its low-lying shoots form a decorative carpet of foliage and flowers in the semi-shade of taller trees. In large tubs, this mint makes a wonderful planting underneath upright summer flowers, allowing its tendrils to droop elegantly.
GTH