Mint 'Mojito'

Scientific Name: Mentha × villosa

Common Name: Mojito Mint, Cuban Mint, Yerba Buena

Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Height: 50–100 cm (20–40 inches)

Width: Approximately 60–90 cm (24–36 inches)

Spacing: 45–60 cm (18–24 inches)

Attracts: Bees and other pollinators

Flavour: Mild, sweet mint flavor

Use: Traditional ingredient in mojito cocktails; also used in teas and culinary dishes

Plant Habit: Perennial herb with a spreading growth habit

Harvest: Leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season; best used fresh

Companion Plants: Cabbage, tomatoes, and peas

General Information: Mojito Mint (Mentha × villosa) is a hybrid mint species resulting from a cross between Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Mentha suaveolens (apple mint). Native to temperate regions of Europe, it thrives in meadows, pastures, and ruderal areas. This aromatic herb is renowned for its use in the traditional Cuban mojito cocktail, imparting a mild and sweet mint flavor. In Cuba and the Philippines, it is commonly referred to as "yerba buena" or "hierbabuena" and has a history of medicinal use. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can become invasive if not managed properly; therefore, container planting is often recommended.