Apple mint - Mentha suaveolens (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Apple mint

Also known as: Woolly mint

Apple mint is widely known for the fruity fragrance and taste of its leaves. Some use them to add flavoring to teas, salads or garnish. It grows in moist soils and though it is also adaptable it won't prosper in dry ones. It is commonly grown as ground cover which helps stop the growth of weeds.

Scientific classification

Species

Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

9 m

Spread

Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

6 mm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Purple, White, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Apple mint

Distribution of Apple mint

Distribution Map

Apple mint is cultivated around the world, including across its native range: Western Europe, Northern Africa, and Turkey. Its natural habitat is beside lakes, rivers, and pools. Introduction into the wild in Eastern Europe and parts of Central and South America was due to escapes from cultivation efforts.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp and wet locations

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Apple mint is a very pretty type of mint frequently used both ornamentally and as an herb. This type is favored for its soft green leaves and relatively tall height, which makes it a nice accent piece for your specimen plants, a groundcover around ponds, or simply an attractive part of the herb garden. It works well in herb and vegetable gardens with tomato, cabbage, and thyme.

Symbolism

Wisdom, protection, mental clarity

Name Story

Apple mint: Do not be fooled by its name as it does not have anything to do with apple tree or Malus domestica. The "apple" from its name is given for the reason that its leaves give out a fresh aroma similar to an apple. Hence, it is called apple mint.

Woolly mint: As part of the Mentha family, the leaves may appear to be wrinkled, but its leaves are featured with a smooth layer of thin fur. Its furry looking appearance gives rise to the name, woolly mint.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Apple mint, including the following common varieties :

Apple mint 'Variegata'

Toxicity

Apple mint is toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingestion of any part can cause severe symptoms, prompting the need for urgent veterinary care. Symptoms in both animals include gastrointestinal upset and pain. Pet owners must ensure their pets do not have access to apple mint and seek immediate treatment if poisoning is suspected. Monitoring and intervention are crucial for their health and well-being.

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Care Guide for Apple mint

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Apple mint thrives in moist, humid conditions, requiring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Watering twice a week supports optimal growth. When properly hydrated, apple mint attracts pollinators, enhancing its lush foliage and aroma in gardens.

Fertilize: Apple mint thrives with balanced fertilizers featuring equal NPK ratios, applied diluted every 4-6 weeks during growth. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent damage; reduce feeding in winter. Fertilize moist soil, steering clear of leaves. Established plants may require less frequent feeding to maintain health.

Pruning: Apple mint thrives with regular pruning, ideally from early to late spring, trimming about one-third of the plant. This enhances bushiness, air circulation, and appearance. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease. For more guidance, consult resources like RHS or university extension services.

Propagation: Apple mint can be propagated easily through cuttings. Select healthy stems, make clean cuts, and place them in water or moist soil with high humidity for root development. Protect cuttings from direct sunlight and use a well-draining medium to maintain moisture without waterlogging.

Repotting: Repot apple mint every 2-3 years in spring for optimal root growth. Use a medium-sized pot with good drainage. Post-repotting, ensure regular watering and partial sunlight for quick recovery and lush foliage. Care is straightforward if optimal conditions are maintained.

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Images of Apple mint

Distribution of Apple mint

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Apple mint

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