Water mint, Mentha aquatica, is a vigorous, herbaceous perennial with a wide native distribution, including Africa, Asia and Europe. In the UK it grows in the shallow waters of fens, streams, ditches and meadows.
It's a fantastic plant for wildlife, as the globose flowerheads are are accessible to a number of pollinators, including butterflies, bees and hoverflies. Water mint leaves also can be used to flavour dishes and drinks.
For best results, grow Mentha aquatica at the edge of a pond as a marginal, or in boggy soil, in full sun or partial shade.
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Mentha and wildlife
Mentha is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and provides shelter and habitat.
