Is Mojito Mint a Perennial Herb?

Mojito mint, or Mentha x villosa, is a perennial plant that grows back every year. This mint is best known for its part in the Cuban mojito cocktail, but it can also be used for many other great things. This article will talk about what makes mojito mint a perennial plant, how to grow it successfully, and why you might want to add this lovely herb to your garden.

What Makes Mojito Mint a Perennial?

There are several key characteristics that identify mojito mint as a perennial plant:

• It regrows each spring from its root system which survives the winter, instead of needing to be replanted annually.

• The above-ground plant dies back in fall and winter, but its roots remain alive underground. This is called going dormant.

• Once temperatures warm in spring, new shoots emerge quickly from the established root system.

• With proper care, the same plant will continue growing for many years without needing to be replaced.

• Mints are spreading perennials, which means that their roots can spread outward, making the plant bigger over time.

• Botanically, mints belong to the Lamiaceae family which contains many other perennial herbs like oregano, thyme and rosemary.

How to Grow Mojito Mint Successfully

Here are some useful tips for growing mojito mint as a perennial:

• Plant it in a pot, not directly in garden beds. This prevents its vigorous spreading roots from taking over your garden!

• Give it rich, well-draining soil. Mojito mint grows best in soil that stays moist and has been amended with compost or other organic matter.

• Site it in full sun to partial shade. At least 4 hours of direct sun is ideal.

• Pinch or snip off flowering stems to prolong leaf production.

• Harvest leaves frequently by cutting stems near their base. This encourages new growth.

• Prune lightly after flowering or heavy harvests. This redirects the plant’s energy back to the roots.

• Water whenever the top few inches of soil become dry. Don’t let it dry out completely.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.

• Mulch around the base of the plant to regulate soil temperature and moisture.

• Protect it with a cold frame or bring pots indoors in cold winters if necessary.

Why Grow Mojito Mint in Your Garden

Here are some great reasons to grow mojito mint as a perennial herb:

• Great flavor – Mojito mint has a delicious minty flavor with refreshing citrus overtones. It adds a unique taste to many dishes.

• Cocktail ingredient – It’s the essential herb used in mojito cocktails and adds amazing flavor when muddled into the classic Cuban drink.

• Versatile culinary uses – Use mojito mint to make teas, jellies, desserts, salads and more. It complements fruits like lime, melon and peach.

• Natural digestive aid – The menthol in mint can help ease indigestion, gas and bloating after meals. The aroma itself can trigger digestion.

• Ornamental beauty – With its attractive green leaves and purple flower spikes, mojito mint makes a great addition to containers and garden beds.

• Pollinator attractor – The flowers draw in pollinators like bees and butterflies, boosting the biodiversity in your garden.

• Easy to grow – Mojito mint is unfussy, thrives in containers, and takes minimal care once established. It’s a great option for beginners.

• Fresh supply – You’ll have homegrown mint at arm’s reach for months on end rather than buying it from the store.