With its refreshing aroma, peppermint is one of the absolute classics in the herb garden. However, very few people know that there is more than one variant. We introduce you to the 10 best peppermint varieties.
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is not just peppermint. There are small but subtle differences between the various peppermints. In the hobby garden, the high-yield, resistant peppermint varieties from commercial cultivation have prevailed over time, which promise self-harvested peppermint tea of the best quality. The individual varieties differ primarily in their adaptation to the environmental conditions of different growing areas. On the other hand, new breeds with extraordinary aromas bring variety. We've rounded up the best old and new peppermint varieties for you.
Tried and robust peppermint varieties
- 'Mitcham': This variety is the archetype of the classic peppermint. The best-known of all peppermint varieties comes from England and grows up to 1.20 m high. 'Mitcham' produces high yields and its dark green and smooth leaves taste wonderfully aromatic. Unfortunately, this English variety is quite susceptible to peppermint rust (Pucinella menthae) and should therefore be moved to a different location every year.
- 'Agnes': The 'Agnes' variety is rich in menthol and yet has a fairly mild aroma. It is resistant to powdery mildew and grows up to 80 cm high.
- 'Eichenau': The 'Eichenau' variety is also described as 'Bavarian Mint'. Its origin lies in the once well-known peppermint cultivation area of Eichenau in Bavaria. There it probably developed from the variety 'Mitcham'. It is characterized by its strong pungent menthol taste and strong aroma. Young shoots are light in color and contrast nicely with the dark older shoots. The plant grows up to 70 cm high.
- 'Multimentha'/'Thuringian Peppermint': The 'Multimentha' variety was used for commercial cultivation in the former GDR. Today it is particularly popular in South Tyrol.It is particularly cold-tolerant, fast-growing and reaches heights of up to one meter. 'Multimentha' is particularly rich in menthol, which gives it an intense aroma.
New and extraordinary peppermint varieties
- 'Nigra': The 'Nigra' variety is also only about 60 cm high and is characterized by its dark colour. Their taste is mild.
- 'Proserpina': This variety of the classic dark color type is extremely vigorous and productive. It can reach heights of up to one meter. The taste is pleasantly spicy.
- 'Chocolate'/'Schoko': The smell and taste of the chocolate mint are reminiscent of mint chocolate or After Eight. The variety only grows to about 60 cm. Its mild, slightly sweet aroma goes well with all kinds of desserts.
The Subspecies Citrata
In addition to the well-known subspecies Mentha piperita var piperita var. citrata represents an important subspecies of peppermint. Varieties of this subspecies are characterized by the citrus scent they exude.
- 'Eau-de-Cologne-Minze': mint with the scent of cologne.
- 'Orange Mint': This variety stands out for its reddish leaves and its fruity aroma reminiscent of oranges. It also tolerates sunny locations and is very vigorous. It is ideal for making refreshing lemonade, for tea, strawberry punch or to refine desserts.
- 'Lime Mint': The refreshing aroma of this strain is reminiscent of the smell of lime peel. The variety grows to a height of about 80 cm.
- Spearmint (Mentha spicata): While spearmint is not directly a variety of peppermint, it is closely related. It is considered to be one of the parent species from which peppermint originated. It is excellent for use in yoghurt dips. It also goes particularly well in African-inspired dishes such as tabbouleh.
Of course, not only peppermint is so rich in different varieties. The variety of mint varietieswe have summarized for you in our special article.