The genus Mentha is a large group of plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Mentha sauveolens (=M. rotundifolia, M. macrostachya and M. insularis), apple or wooly mint, is an herbaceous perennial native to southern and western Europe and the western Mediterranean that is commonly grown as a culinary herb. The variety ‘Variagata’ looks quite different from the species and goes by a different common name of pineapple mint.
As the name ‘Variagata” suggests, the leaves of this cultivar are variegated with creamy white instead of the solid green of the species. Pineapple mint is edible, so can be used to flavor tea, jelly or fruit salads, or as a colorful garnish. The leaves are also added to light, fruity potpourri and is has been used for medicinal purposes. Although it can be used as a culinary herb, this variety is frequently grown just as an ornamental. It is hardy in zones 5-9, and zone 4 with protection.
Like most mints, pineapple mint is a creeping plant that spreads from shallow underground rhizomes. Clumps grow 2 to 3 feet tall, and unlimited in width. The aromatic, opposite leaves are oval to oblong, 1-2 inches long and ¾ – 1.5 inches wide with toothed or serrated margins. They are sesslie (have no petioles).
The soft, furry leaves are crinkled and have hairs on both upper and lower surfaces, with downy undersides. Supposedly the leaves have a pineapple fragrance, although is not particularly strong and is more just somewhat sweet and fruity. The foliage tends to remain dense right to the ground, not dropping its lower leaves like many other mints, so positioning to hide bare stems with other plants is not a concern.
Pineapple mint typically has pale green leaves margined with cream. The cream and green variegation is quite variable, however, ranging from all-white to solid green and everything in between. All white stems do not have any chlorophyll to produce energy, and are susceptible to sunburn, so these stems tend to die out. The all-green-leaved stems are more vigorous than the variegated ones, so they should be cut out to prevent them from taking over, leaving you with apple mint instead.
Tubular white, pink, or pale purple flowers are produced in dense columnar spikes of whorls (verticillasters) in summer. These are attractive to butterflies and beneficial insects. Inconspicuous nutlets are produced after the flowers are pollinated.
Pineapple mint makes a good groundcover and is useful as an accent plant at the front of a border or bed. Of course it could be included in the herb garden as well. Combine this plant of medium texture with fine or coarse textured plants with solid-colored leaves for maximum contrast. Although the shallow rhizomes are easy to pull, this plant can be fairly aggressive in spreading, so plant in containers to prevent it from becoming invasive if you can’t assure it will remain confined. It makes a good addition to mixed containers,
Pineapple mint does best in full sun in cool climates (but needs some shade in hotter climates or the leaves will burn; in mild climates it will sprawl and flop over in too much shade), and tolerates all types of moist soil. It needs consistent moisture to look its best but becomes floppy in rich soils or when fertilized much, so is good planted in lean soil. Removing old, woody plants to allow new stems to fill in will keep it looking its best. Cut the foliage back to the ground at the end of the season. It is easy to propagate at any time during the growing season from rhizomes but can also be increased by rooting stem cuttings in water or moist rooting medium. This plant has few pests and is not bothered by rabbits or deer.
– Susan Mahr, University of Wisconsin – Madison
FAQs
Is pineapple mint invasive? ›
Although the shallow rhizomes are easy to pull, this plant can be fairly aggressive in spreading, so plant in containers to prevent it from becoming invasive if you can't assure it will remain confined.
What is pineapple mint good for? ›Pineapple Mint Medicinal Uses
Like other Apple Mints, 'Variegata' has several medicinal uses, including: Digestive aid: 'Variegata' can be used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as indigestion, nausea, and bloating.
In the Garden
Make sure you prune any leaves that do not have the cream color because leaves that are solid green are actually Apple Mint which will take over the plant if not cut off. In the Winter, cut the plant back to the ground and it will grow back in the Spring.
Mentha suaveolens 'Pineapple', Pineapple Mint
Culinary; the flowers and leaves are edible. The leaves are good for mint sauces and jellies.
Invasive Plant
Unless it is contained, mint spreads aggressively and competes with other plants for water and nutrients in the soil, leading to stunted growth or even death of surrounding plants. Planting mint in a container is a great way to control its aggressive habit.
Pineapple Mint is a relatively rare houseplant 🌿 that needs regular watering to thrive. They do best in long-lasting, direct light ☀️ and should be less than 1 foot from a window. Pineapple Mint likes soil that is well draining.
What does mint do to your body? ›Mint is a popular herb that may possess potential health benefits. This may include helping with digestive health, reducing allergic symptoms, and soothing common cold symptoms. Mint or mentha belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which contains around 15–20 plant species, including peppermint and spearmint.
How to use mint for oral health? ›Chewing mint leaves has another oral-healthy friendly effect: It stimulates saliva production. Saliva acts as a natural mouthwash, rinsing away bacteria and any bits of food that might feed bacteria. And stimulated saliva is even better for our teeth than saliva secreted sans stimulation.
What are the hidden benefits of pineapple? ›Pineapple: 8 Impressive Health Benefits. Pineapple contains nutrients and beneficial compounds, such as vitamin C, manganese, and enzymes, to help aid digestion. Eating pineapple may help boost immunity, lower cancer risk, and improve recovery time after surgery. Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical fruit.
Can Pineapple Mint grow in shade? ›Like other mints, pineapple mint thrives in a moist, rich soil. It does well in sun or in partial shade. In the south, it may need to be grown in partial shade. Also similar to other mints, pineapple mint can be a fast spreader, so containing it in a pot is a good way to control its growth.
Will mint grow back after cutting? ›
Cutting back
When mint finishes flowering in late summer, cut the whole plant down to 5cm (2in) from the base. This will encourage fresh shoots, packed with delicious young leaves that you can start harvesting in a few weeks.
Although slightly frost tolerant, the top of mint will eventually die back in winter except in zones 8 and south, but the root are quite hardy, surviving into zone 5 (some varieties even into zone 3). Lift and replant your mint every 3 to 4 years to keep your patch's flavor and scent strong.
Is pineapple mint medicinal? ›Not only is the Pineapple Mint Plant tasty, but it also has several health benefits. The essential oils found in the plant have been shown to aid in digestion, reduce inflammation, and even improve cognitive function. It is also used in permaculture for deterring unwanted pests.
Does pineapple mint spread? ›Pineapple mint is a perennial herb that can grow 60 to 90 centimeters tall and easily spread just as wide.
What are the health benefits of pineapple mint juice? ›Health Benefits:
Being rich in vitamin C, it is a great food to boost your immune system, promote healthy skin, and prevent free-radical damage. Its high content in manganese and vitamin B1 makes it an excellent food to boost energy production in the body and antioxidant defences.
To keep it variegated, you need to cut off any green stems. Orange mint is the most invasive of all mints, so plant accordingly.
What is the difference between apple mint and pineapple mint? ›Pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens 'Variegata') is a cultivar of apple mint that has leaves which are banded with white.
Do pineapple plants spread? ›Once it has produced a fruit, your pineapple plant will die back. However it will produce baby plants (offsets) at its base. Simply sever them from the mother plant with a clean, sharp knife, making sure you cut any roots away with each one, then pot each offset into a small pot and grow on.