Pineapple Mint, Variegated Apple Mint, Variegated Round-Leaved Mint
Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’, also known as Pineapple Mint, is a strong-growing perennial prized for its variegated foliage of rounded, softly hairy leaves, releasing a fresh, bright, and slightly sweet taste that is reminiscent of apples. Tiny mauve flowers are borne in dense spikes in late summer. Pineapple Mint is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Pineapple mint is a versatile herb that can be used to add a fresh, sweet flavor to a variety of dishes. It pairs particularly well with fruit, vegetables, and meats, making it a popular choice for use in savory and sweet dishes alike.
In teas and beverages: ‘Variegata’ is often used to flavor teas, iced teas, and other beverages.
In sauces and marinades: ‘Variegata’ can be used to add flavor to sauces, marinades, and other culinary preparations.
In desserts: ‘Variegata’ can be used to flavor ice creams, sorbets, and other desserts.
In salads: ‘Variegata’ can be used to add flavor to salads, particularly those with a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern flavor profile.
As a garnish: ‘Variegata’ can be used as a fresh garnish for cocktails, desserts, and other dishes.
Like other Apple Mints, ‘Variegata’ has several medicinal uses, including:
Digestive aid: ‘Variegata’ can be used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as indigestion, nausea, and bloating.
Headache relief: ‘Variegata’ can be used as a natural remedy for headaches and migraines, as its scent has been shown to have a soothing effect on the head and neck.
Aromatherapy: ‘Variegata’ has a fresh, slightly fruity aroma that can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and uplift mood.
Natural insect repellent: ‘Variegata’ has been shown to repel insects, making it a popular natural alternative to chemical insecticides.
It’s important to note that while ‘Variegata’ has many of the same medicinal properties as the species Mentha suaveolens, it may have slightly different effects due to its variegated foliage. If you’re considering using ‘Variegata’ for medicinal purposes, it’s best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider first.
Mint is an excellent companion plant.
Do not plant Mint in the ground near your vegetables in order to prevent it from taking over your vegetable crops. Use Mint foliage as mulch or keep it in pots.
Find here the list of best and worst companion plants for Mints
Mint is best harvested just before the plant starts to flower when the essential oils and flavor are at their peak. Here are some tips for harvesting mint:
Hardiness |
5 - 9 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Herbs, Perennials |
Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
Genus | Mentha |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) |
Height |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spread |
3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
Spacing | 24" (60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Banks And Slopes, Beds And Borders, Ground Covers, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens |
Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Danny Hummel, Shutterstock
Hardiness |
5 - 9 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Herbs, Perennials |
Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
Genus | Mentha |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Summer (Mid, Late) |
Height |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spread |
3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
Spacing | 24" (60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Banks And Slopes, Beds And Borders, Ground Covers, Ponds And Streams, Rain Gardens |
Garden Styles | Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
How many Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’ (Pineapple Mint) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’ (Pineapple Mint) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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