Also known as Apple-Scented Mint · Big-Leaved Mint · Hill Mint
Mentha suaveolens, or Apple Mint, is a fast-growing, aromatic perennial herb. Known for fuzzy, apple-scented leaves and small white to pale pink flowers in summer. Popula
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade for best growth.
60% intensity
Consistently moist soil, avoid waterlogging.
70% intensity
Fertile, moist, well-drained loam.
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24 °C, tolerates wider range.
60% intensity
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Light feeding during active growth.
40% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Apple Mint prefers consistently moist soil, but never waterlogged. During warm, dry periods, check the soil daily and water thoroughly when the top inch feels dry to the touch.
Reduce watering in cooler months or if the plant is dormant, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Good drainage is crucial for healthy growth.
Regular pruning is essential for Apple Mint to encourage bushy growth, prevent legginess, and control its vigorous spread.
Pinch back stem tips frequently, especially before flowering, to promote new leaf production and maintain a compact shape. Harvest leaves regularly for culinary use, which also acts as a form of pruning.
Cut back severely in late autumn or early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
Apple Mint is incredibly easy to propagate, primarily through stem cuttings or division. For cuttings, take 10-15 cm non-flowering stems, remove lower leaves, and place them in water or moist potting mix.
Roots typically form within a few weeks. Division of the rootball in spring or autumn is also effective, simply separating clumps with roots and replanting them.
Repot Apple Mint annually or biennially, preferably in spring, to refresh the soil and provide more space for its spreading root system.
Choose a pot that is one size larger, or divide the plant if you wish to maintain the current pot size or create new plants. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
This helps manage its vigorous growth and prevents it from becoming root-bound.
Identify plants like this with ePlant
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Apple Mint (Mentha suaveolens)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Lamiales |
| family | Lamiaceae |
| genus | Mentha |
| species | Mentha suaveolens |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
