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Mentha pulegium

Mentha pulegium

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PennyroyalBog, Herb, Marginal, Perennial, PondFamily: Lamiaceae

Height: 10cmSpread: 60cm
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife

Flower colour:

Purple

Foliage colour:

Green

Position

Sun Exposure:

Dappled shade, full sun

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Front, middle

Soil

Clay / Heavy / Moist

Creeping pennyroyal, Mentha pulegium, is a traditional cottage garden plant in the mint family. Typically found in marshy soils, ditches and around the edges of ponds, pennyroyal is a moisture-loving plant, and does best when grown in damp conditions.

The dark green leaves of pennyroyal have a strong peppermint aroma, and release their fragrance when rubbed or crushed underfoot. Spreading by adventitious roots, pennyroyal will quickly cover the ground, making it a great alternative to the traditional grass lawn, particularly in damp, shady gardens. Let the plants spill over pathways so you release their heady aroma as you walk along.

From mid to late summer, pretty lilac-blue flowers appear on stout stems, which attract bees and other pollinators.

Despite its traditional uses as a medicine and culinary herb (often used as a seasoning for pork dishes), pennyroyal is rarely used as such today. Its flavour is considered far too strong for our palates. However, the leaves may be infused in hot water to make a strong mint tea.

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Mentha ‘Pulegium’ and wildlife

Mentha ‘Pulegium’ is known for attracting bees and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees

Bees

Is not known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Mentha ‘Pulegium’ poisonous?

Mentha ‘Pulegium’ can be toxic.

Toxic to:

Is known to attract Cats

Cats

Is known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is known to attract Horses

Horses

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People