Peppermint belongs to the large mint family, of which there are many different species. If you want to plant pure peppermint varieties in the garden, you often have to search a long time, because the plant is only sold as peppermint (Mentha x peperita).

The country of origin of peppermint is England

Peppermint is a cultivated plant that probably arose by chance when different types of mint were crossed. She first became known in England. This is why peppermint varieties almost always have English names.

You can tell whether you have a real peppermint variety by the botanical name (Mentha x peperita)

Known varieties of peppermint

  • English mint
  • Black Mitchum
  • White Peppermint

Peppermint leaves do not always have to be green. There are species with white or very dark leaves. The individual varieties also differ in their aroma.

English mint

English mint is probably the best-known variety of peppermint. It is particularly aromatic and gives many dishes their typical, slightly spicy aroma. This variety is part of the popular English mint sauce.

Black Mitchum

This variety of peppermint is considered to be the oldest variety of peppermint. She was discovered by accident in the English town of Mitchum. Its leaves are very dark because it contains a lot of anthocyanin pigments. Her aroma is very fresh. Black Mitchum is used as a flavoring for the popular After Eight chocolate bars.

White Peppermint

Its leaves are very light because they contain few anthocyanin pigments. The taste of the white peppermint is the mildest peppermint variety.

Advancements in Peppermint

Breeding and crossing with other plants has resulted in a number of other types of peppermint. Are known:

  • Lemon Peppermint (additive: f. citrata)
  • Bergamot Peppermint (supplement: var citrata "bergamot")
  • Orange Peppermint (supplement: var citrata "Orangina")

Other countries - other mint varieties

Almost every country has mint in different varieties such as Moroccan mint, Corsican mint, Turkish mint or Italian mint. Not all are as hot and aromatic as English mint.

If you're adventurous, try growing other mint varieties. You can plant pineapple mint, strawberry mint, even chocolate mint in the garden.

tips and tricks

Peppermint contains a lot of essential oils. They can attack the walls of the stomach if consumed too often. Sensitive people should therefore only use peppermint sparingly.

Category:

Vegetable garden