Mentha × piperita 'Citrata'
herbOrange Mint (Mentha x piperita Citrata, also called Bergamot Mint or Eau de Cologne Mint) is a peppermint cultivar with the haunting citrus-bergamot aroma of an Earl Grey tea garden. The dark green leaves with purple veining produce an unmistakable orange-flower scent that flavors teas, fruit salads, and infused waters beautifully. Hardy and spreading; container culture recommended.
Sun
partial shade
Water
Every 3 days
Harvest
~60 days
Difficulty
easy
Lifecycle
perennial
Comes back every year
Spacing
12-18 in apart in containers
Planting Depth
Same depth as nursery container
Soil pH
6.0-7.5
Soil Type
Rich, moist
Hardiness Zones
Zones 4 – 11
When to Fertilize
Light feed monthly during growing season
Fertilizer
Balanced 10-10-10 or fish emulsion
Plant in full sun to partial shade on moist humus-rich soil. Hardy in zones 4 to 11 as a vigorous spreading perennial. Best grown in containers to control the spreading runners. Keep consistently moist; do not let the soil dry. Pinch back regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering (flowering reduces leaf intensity). Divide every 2 to 3 years.
Direct sow
Apr 29
Projected first harvest
Jun 28
Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests
Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide
Site for airflow; remove infected leaves promptly
Mist foliage in dry weather
Blast with water
Spreading runners
Container only; never plant directly in the garden
Harvest leaves any time. The citrus-bergamot fragrance is at its peak just before flowering. Use fresh in herbal teas, fruit salads, infused waters, and as a creative garnish for desserts. Bruise leaves gently to release the citrus oils before steeping. Dries well for tea; the bergamot scent persists strongly through drying. A small handful of fresh Orange Mint in iced tea or lemonade is transformative.
Culinary value: Orange Mint contains linalool and other citrus-aromatic compounds (the same family found in bergamot orange) on top of standard peppermint menthol. The combination makes the leaves uniquely suited to fruit-based drinks and desserts. Traditionally used as a calming digestive tea.
For educational and informational purposes only — HomeSown is not medical, health, or other professional advice. Always positively identify any plant before handling or eating it; some plants, and some parts of otherwise-edible plants, are toxic. Consult a qualified professional before consuming or otherwise using any plant, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a health condition.