Apple Mint, the round-leaved woolly mint

Apple Mint (Mentha suaveolens), sometimes called Pineapple Mint, Round-Leaved Mint or Woolly Mint, is another invasive mint which will take over if you let it. Grow it in a big pot in a sunny or partially shaded position, bearing in mind that it is likely to reach 1m (3 feet) in height. It will do best if grown in good soil and not allowed to dry out.

Apple Mint is often grown for use in pot pourri, as it has a very good scent even after drying. This is because of the essential oil contained in the plant, which itself is antiseptic (please note that essential oil of apple mint is toxic in large amounts), although it isn’t practical to try and extract it at home. The leaves are sometimes candied or used to make a herbal tea.

Apple Mint is not suitable for pregnant women in large amounts or as a herbal remedy.

Make a standard infusion using 3-4 teaspoonfuls of fresh or 1-2 teaspoonfuls of dried leaves to 1 cup of boiling water. Leave to stand for about 10 minutes and drain before use. This can be used to treat indigestion, headaches and to help lower high temperatures.

Because herbs are used in high concentrations for herbal medicine, it’s important that you grow them organically so as to avoid ingesting nasty chemicals along with your remedy. For more information on growing apple mint organically, visit the Gardenzone.

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