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Description
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata, also known as Variegated Apple Mint, is a popular plant in the mint family. This herbaceous perennial plant is known for its attractive variegated leaves that are green with white edges. It produces small white or pink flowers in the summer months, which attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Mentha |
Appearance
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata is a medium-sized plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. It has square stems and opposite leaves that are 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are variegated, with green in the center and white edges. The plant produces small white or pink flowers in the summer months, which are not particularly showy.
Care Guide
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water
This plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not grow as vigorously.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following issues:
Pests
– Aphids- Spider mites- Whiteflies
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Rust- Root rot
Habitat
Mentha Suaveolens Variegata is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I use Mentha Suaveolens Variegata in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of this plant have a mild apple-mint flavor and can be used in teas, salads, and other dishes.
Q: Can I propagate Mentha Suaveolens Variegata?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by division or from stem cuttings.
Q: Is Mentha Suaveolens Variegata toxic to pets?
A: Mint plants, including Mentha Suaveolens Variegata, can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities. Keep the plant out of reach of pets or supervise them when they are around the plant.
Q: How often should I prune Mentha Suaveolens Variegata?
A: Prune the plant regularly to keep it from becoming too leggy or sprawling. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth.
Related Plants
– Mentha spicata (Spearmint)- Mentha piperita (Peppermint)- Mentha x piperita f. citrata ‘Lemon’ (Lemon Mint)- Mentha suaveolens (Apple Mint)- Mentha x villosa (Pineapple Mint)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Mentha suaveolens var. variegata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a757- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Mint: Growing in the Garden and Kitchen. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/herbs/mint-growing-garden-and-kitchen
