Variegated Ginger Mint 'Variegata' (Mentha × gracilis 'Variegata'): Cream-Edged Leaves with Ginger-Mint Flavor

Overview

Variegated ginger mint (Mentha × gracilis 'Variegata'), also called 'Aurea', is a spreading perennial with attractive, green leaves edged in creamy yellow and a unique flavor combining mint and ginger. It grows 12-18 inches tall with lilac flower spikes in summer. A sport of ginger mint (M. × gracilis).

Botanical Details

• Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
• Genus: Mentha
• Species: × gracilis
• Cultivar: 'Variegata' (syn. 'Aurea')
• Synonym: Mentha × gentilis

Culture & Uses

Plant in containers to control spread. Part shade, moist, rich soil. Leaves flavor iced tea, fruit salads, Asian dishes, cocktails. Variegation brightens shady spots. Cut back hard after flowering. Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. May revert; remove solid green shoots.