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Mentha villosa

Mentha villosa · Lamiaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for October

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around mentha villosa and prepare for winter.

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ID card

Family
Lamiaceae
Plant type
Perennial herb
Foliage
Persistent to semi-persistent
Flowering
Summer (July-August)
Mature size
40 to 80 cm in height
Growth rate
Fast
Hardiness
Fairly hardy (down to -10 °C)
Origin
Central and South America
Preferred soil
Well-draining, rich in organic matter

Care

Watering

Water regularly to keep the soil moist without ever waterlogging it, especially during growth and flowering periods. During winter, reduce watering and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Excess moisture can promote root rot.

Light exposure

Place it in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. It tolerates partial shade but flowers more abundantly in sunlight. Protect it from strong winds that can damage its tender foliage.

Soil

Prepare well-draining soil enriched with compost or quality potting mix. Mentha villosa prefers slightly acidic to neutral substrate. Improve soil structure with perlite or sand if drainage is insufficient.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer every 15 days during the growth period (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn and stop completely in winter. Opt for a light herb fertilizer or diluted organic fertilizer.

Pruning and maintenance

Pinch the stems regularly in spring to encourage a dense, bushy habit. Harvest or cut young leaves to stimulate branching. Remove spent flowers to prolong vegetation, unless you want to let the plant self-seed naturally.

Diseases and pests

Watch for powdery mildew in cases of stagnant humidity and poor air circulation: improve airflow around the plant. Check for spider mites or whiteflies, especially indoors. In case of infestation, isolate the plant and treat with natural insecticidal soap.

Did you know?

Mentha villosa, also called hairy mint or curly mint, originates from the Andean regions of South America where it grows naturally at altitude. It has been traditionally used in herbal tea by local communities for its digestive properties and its particularly sweet and fruity aroma.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.