Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

Aromatic member of the mint family. Low-growing plant with long, creeping branches. Repels white flies and mosquitoes. Traditional medicinal and culinary uses but should not be taken by pregnant women

How to Grow Pennyroyal from Seed

Bed Preparation

Pennyroyal prefers full sun or partial shade in a spot with well-drained soil. Choose a permanent site as it is a perennial and has a slow, spreading nature. Pennyroyal is native to the Mediterranean region, so it tolerates heat and dry soil well.

Planting

Surface sown. Sow in flats indoors in early spring to transplant in mid to late spring for best results, or direct seed in mid-spring after the last frost. Plant starts or spread seeds 12 inches apart to give them room to spread. Water moderately. Perennial to zones 7-9.

Harvest

Harvest aerial parts at any point in the growing season after the plant has developed numerous mature stems. Harvest with scissors for a clean cut so the plants can heal easily.

Use fresh. Can be screen dried, hang dried, or basket dried. Once completely dried, store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.