Pennyroyal Crowns – Mentha pulegium
$8.00
Creeping Aromatic Herb | Traditional Nervine | Ground Cover
You will receive 3 dormant root cuttings with growth tips, that will start growing in Spring. Plant as soon as you receive it.
Classic Creeping Mint with Traditional Heritage
Add a low-growing, aromatic perennial to your garden with Pennyroyal crowns. This classic herb forms dense mats of small, rounded, peppermint-scented leaves on creeping stems. In summer it produces small clusters of lilac to pale purple flowers.
Pennyroyal is ideal as a ground cover between pavers, in herb gardens, rockeries, or near pathways where its strong scent can be enjoyed when brushed against. It has a long history in traditional herbalism and as a natural insect repellent.
15 in stock
Description
Traditional & Medicinal Uses
Pennyroyal has been used for centuries in European and other traditional systems:
- Digestive Support: Traditionally used for stomach cramps, flatulence, indigestion, and nausea.
- Nervine & Menstrual Support: Valued as a calming herb for anxiety and to promote menstruation (emmenagogue).
- Respiratory & Fever Relief: Used for colds, coughs, and fevers in folk traditions.
- Insect Repellent: The strong scent makes it useful as a natural deterrent for fleas, mosquitoes, and other pests (when used externally as a wash or scattered stems).
Critical Safety Note: Pennyroyal contains pulegone, which is toxic in higher amounts. The essential oil is considered highly unsafe and can cause serious liver, kidney, and nervous system damage. Do not ingest the oil or use internally without expert guidance. It is contraindicated for pregnant or nursing women, children, and people with liver/kidney issues. Always consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before any medicinal use. Best used externally or as an ornamental/aromatic plant.
Why Grow Pennyroyal?
- Excellent low-growing ground cover that suppresses weeds
- Delightful minty scent when walked on or brushed
- Attracts pollinators with its small flowers
- Tough, hardy, and spreads readily
- Traditional herb garden staple
- Good for containers or edging
Ideal for New Zealand: Grows well in Canterbury and similar temperate areas. Prefers moist but well-drained spots.
How to Grow Pennyroyal Crowns
Planting:
- Plant crowns in spring or autumn.
- Set crowns just below soil level, spacing 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart.
- Water well after planting.
Soil & Care:
- Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil.
- Full sun to partial shade.
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods — mulch to retain moisture.
- Contains spread — use barriers or pots if you want to limit its growth.
Growth & Harvest:
- Height: 10–30 cm (4–12 inches)
- Spread: 30–60+ cm as ground cover
- Blooms: Summer (small lilac-purple flowers)
- Harvest: Pick fresh leaves as needed for external uses or potpourri. Dry for sachets or repellents.
- Very easy and forgiving once established. Divide in spring or autumn if needed.
Pennyroyal is a vigorous, low-maintenance creeper — great for beginners seeking aromatic ground cover.
