Where to Plant Alpine Mint

The Alpine mint, or Prostanthera cuneata, originates in Australia's alpine and sub-alpine mountains. The evergreen bush earned its name from the minty aroma released from its crushed leaves, although the plant does not belong to the mint family.

Light

Alpine mint thrives in full to partial sunlight. Alice Rentsch of the Australian National Botanic Garden recommends slowly increasing the hours of sunlight each newly potted plant receives daily.

Soil and Water

Plant alpine mint in acidic loam or sandy soil that drains quickly. Many gardeners find that alpine mint grows well in rock gardens and gravel environments. Although the evergreen tolerates frost and snow as well as dry conditions, the plant prefers moist soil and regular watering.

Climate

The USDA rates alpine mint as hardy in zones 8 and 9b. These zones stretch across California and the southern United States, from Brownsville, Texas, to Gainesville, Florida. Despite these recommendations, many gardeners report successfully planting alpine mint as far north as Puget Sound in Washington.

References

• Australian National Botanic Gardens: Prostanthera Cuneata
• Practically Edible: Alpine Mint
• Provincial Plants and Landscapes: Prostanthera Cuneata
• Plant This: Prostanthera Cuneata
• National Arboretum: USDA Plant Hardiness Zones
• Rainyside Gardening: Pacific Northwest