The Apple Mint: the Velvety Giant in the Herb Garden

The genus Mentha now includes over 30 different species. Many of these have naturally arisen by chance, while others were specifically cultivated. Through further breeding of the plant, the variety is constantly expanded with new flavors such as apple, strawberry, or orange.

The apple mint is one of those varieties. This particular mint is especially popular as a tea mint due to its very refreshing aroma. The plant is also particularly liked by children. No wonder: who doesn't like apples?

Like many other varieties of mint, apple mint has a strong tendency to spread and can, if not controlled, crowd out other plants. Due to its height – it can grow up to 80 centimeters – apple mint is ideal for a perennial bed. The plant's leaves are softly hairy, allowing it to thrive in full sunlight. And despite its velvety appearance, apple mint is highly winter-hardy.

Apple mint does not produce seeds. Although, like its relatives, the mint blooms in summer, it reproduces in a different way. And in quite an unconventional and secretive manner: apple mint propagates through underground runners. The plant's drive to spread is truly remarkable, especially considering that it can thrive even in dry soil.

Apple mint is often used for teas, making it a popular tea ingredient. But this plant with its fruity aroma has more to offer! When finely chopped, it adds a fresh touch to salads or smoothies. A particularly delicious tip: semolina pudding with mint. To make it, simply bring 250ml of fresh whole milk to a boil, then add 80g of semolina and 40g of sugar. Chop the apple mint leaves roughly and mix them with 50ml of cream until the cream stiffens. Add the whipped cream to the semolina and stir it in. Divide the mixture into 4 molds and let it cool. Mmmmm… delicious!