Discovering Mint: A Guide to 5 Types and Their Uses

The magic of Mint plants lies in their myriad possibilities. Whether you're an experienced chef exploring flavour fusions, an enthusiast seeking holistic well-being, or a landscaper looking to decorate their garden, Mint offers something for everyone.

1. Mint (Mentha spp.)

The tried-and-true aromatic perennial plant from the family Lamiaceae is a staple in our kitchens and gardens. Its ability to thrive in diverse environments makes it a favourite among gardeners, whether they have sunny spots or shady corners to fill. With proper care, your mint plant will flourish and offer a generous yield of fragrant leaves and pale pink and purple flowers. Its blooms not only add a touch of colour but also attract pollinators that play a vital role in your garden's ecosystem. 

View our useful guide on How to harvest and prune mint. 

USE IN: The Mint plant’s versatility shines through in various culinary and aesthetic applications. Whether used as a garnish, brewed into soothing infusions, or blended into sauces, the classic Mint’s charm never disappoints. Its strong aroma and refreshing taste make it a star ingredient in Middle Eastern and Indian recipes. The leaves can be used fresh, dried, or even preserved in various forms to enjoy the minty goodness year-round.

Check out our tasty recipe on how to make a Cranberry Smoothie with Mint.

2. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

With its refreshing aroma and soothing properties, Peppermint holds a special place in the herb kingdom. Its strong scent is not only delightful to us but also acts as a natural repellent for unwanted pests. Placing peppermint plants strategically around your garden or near entry points can help deter insects and rodents, providing a natural solution to pest control.

USE IN: Widely recognised for its use in medicinal teas, Peppermint is equally brilliant at transforming culinary creations. Add chopped peppermint leaves to ice creams, sorbets, chocolate desserts, and even fruit salads for a refreshing twist. 

Check out our guide on Which Herbs to Add to Your Drinks.

3. Moroccan Mint (Mentha spicata var crispa 'Moroccan')

Transport yourself to the vibrant markets of Morocco with this unique mint plant variety. Whether planted in a garden bed or sat on your windowsill, Moroccan Mint is a visual delight that elevates your surroundings. During the summer months, delicate pale purple flowers grace the plant, adding an extra layer of beauty to its appearance. 

USE IN: One of the best ways to savour the Moroccan Mint leaves is by brewing a refreshing cup of tea. This herbal tea is not only a treat for your taste buds but also offers potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and relieving stress. Beyond tea, Moroccan mint leaves can uplift salads, give an exotic touch to cocktails, and serve as a garnish. The plant's sweet taste also makes it an ideal natural sugar substitute.

Check out our Sloe Gin Fizz recipe.

4. Chocolate Mint (Mentha × piperita f. citrata ‘Chocolate’)

In the world of the Mint family, there are few as captivating and indulgent as the Chocolate Mint. It carries a subtle yet unmistakable taste of both cocoa and vanilla, which sets it apart from its other minty counterparts. It is important to know, however, that, given the right conditions, the chocolate mint plant has a tendency to spread. To prevent it from taking over your garden, consider keeping it in containers. 

USE IN: Chocolate mint brings a touch of luxury to every culinary creation. It’s perfect for enhancing desserts and hot and cold beverages. If you're searching for healthier alternatives, consider using chocolate mint leaves in fruit salads. They also make the perfect addition to savoury meals like lamb or fish dishes.

Check out our guide on the Top 5 Best Herbal Teas.

5. Apple Mint (Mentha × rotundifolia)

Immerse yourself in the sweet, fruity aroma of Apple Mint. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of southern and western Europe, this unique herb is celebrated for its apple-like fragrance. When compared to its well-known cousin, spearmint, the apple mint plant has larger leaves and offers a more delicate, subtle taste. However, it's worth noting that it requires specific conditions to thrive. Unlike its heat-tolerant counterpart, these mint plants prefer to grow in areas sheltered from the wind and are less tolerant of hot weather.

USE IN: Apple Mint is an aromatic delight that complements fruit salads with a nuanced twist. The subtle notes of apple make it a great addition to beverages such as cocktails and mocktails, while its leaves can transform jams and jellies. When combined with various spices, the herb becomes an essential ingredient for sauces that complement seafood, lamb, and poultry dishes.

Check out our delicious recipe on how to make Thyme Mint Poached Pears.

At Season Herbs, we're committed to curating a premium selection of Mint plant varieties, each nurtured with meticulous care. Shop our herb collections that include Mint plants, such as Chef’s Collection, Classic Collection, and Wildlife Collection.