Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium
ABOUT
Commonly known as pennyroyal, this plant is a perennial herb that boasts a creeping growth habit, often forming a lush mat of foliage over the ground. The leaves of pennyroyal are quite distinctive – they are small, oval-shaped with a slightly wrinkled texture, and possess a rich green color that provides a visually appealing ground cover. During the blooming season, pennyroyal produces small lilac flowers that are arranged in tight clusters, resembling spikes that emerge from the leaf axils. These flowers can attract a variety of pollinators, adding to the lively appearance of the plant. The entire plant is known for its strong, minty fragrance that becomes more pronounced when the leaves are crushed, releasing its aromatic oils. This fragrance is a hallmark of the plant and contributes to its use in various applications for its scent and purported medicinal properties.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Pennyroyal, European Pennyroyal, Squaw Mint, Mosquito Plant, Pudding Grass.
Common names
Mentha pulegium var. hirtella Briq., Pulegium vulgare Mill., Pulegium dalmaticum Tausch, Pulegium rectum Tausch, Pulegium germanicum Schrank, Pulegium officinale Gray.
ToxicityTo humans
Pennyroyal, specifically Mentha pulegium, contains a toxic compound called pulegone. If ingested by humans, it can potentially cause liver damage, nervous system issues, and digestive problems. Symptoms of pennyroyal poisoning often include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures, multiple organ failure, or even death. Pregnant women should avoid pennyroyal, as it can induce a miscarriage and lead to serious health complications.
To pets
Pennyroyal is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingestion can lead to similar symptoms as seen in humans, such as liver damage, nervous system depression, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, seizures or death. Pets that have ingested pennyroyal require immediate veterinary attention to prevent potentially fatal outcomes.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lilac
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Mentha pulegium, commonly known as pennyroyal, is used as a flavoring herb in various cuisines and can add a distinct minty flavor to dishes.
- Insect Repellent: The strong fragrance of pennyroyal is often used as a natural repellent against insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and others.
- Aromatic: Pennyroyal has a strong minty aroma that is used in potpourris and scented sachets to impart a fresh scent to rooms and drawers.
- Decorative Ground Cover: Due to its low-growing habit, pennyroyal can serve as an attractive ground cover in gardens, adding greenery and texture to the landscape.
- Companion Planting: Pennyroyal is sometimes used in companion planting to deter pests from other plants in gardens and agricultural settings.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Mentha pulegium, commonly known as pennyroyal, has been traditionally used to alleviate spasms of the digestive tract.
- Carminative: The plant is believed to relieve flatulence and bloating by facilitating the expulsion of gas from the intestines.
- Emmenagogue: Pennyroyal has historically been used to stimulate menstrual flow and regulate menstruation.
- Insecticidal: The essential oil of pennyroyal is known for its insect-repelling properties, particularly against fleas.
- Aromatic: Pennyroyal's strong minty aroma has been used for its refreshing and uplifting effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: Pennyroyal is traditionally used to repel insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, and other pests due to its strong minty aroma.
- Aromatic Oils: The essential oil of Pennyroyal can be used in aromatherapy and as a fragrance for soaps, candles, and potpourris, but it must be used with extreme caution due to its high toxicity.
- Flavoring Agent: Pennyroyal leaves are occasionally used in small amounts to flavor herbal teas, foods, and drinks, imparting a minty taste.
- Companion Planting: Pennyroyal can be planted in gardens to deter pests from neighboring plants and is sometimes used in companion planting strategies.
- Garden Ornamental: With its small, lilac flowers and ground-covering growth habit, Pennyroyal can be an attractive addition to ornamental gardens.
- Traditional Ceremonies: In certain cultures, Pennyroyal has been used in traditional ceremonies and rituals for its supposed mystical properties.
- Culinary Garnish: Fresh Pennyroyal leaves may be used as a decorative and flavorful garnish for culinary dishes, albeit sparingly due to its potency.
- Linen Freshener: Dried Pennyroyal leaves can be placed in muslin bags and used to freshen linens and ward off insects in closets or drawers.
- Natural Dye: Pennyroyal can be used as a source of natural green dye for textiles, although it is not commonly used for this purpose today.
- Traditional Crafts: Dried Pennyroyal stems and flowers can be used in the creation of traditional crafts such as wreaths or dried floral arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiPennyroyal is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityPennyroyal is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) has traditionally been used to ward off evil spirits and negative energy, often carried or used in spells for protection.
- Strength and Vitality: Due to its robust nature and vigorous growth, pennyroyal symbolizes inner strength and the vitality to overcome challenges.
- Purification: It has been employed in purification rituals and is thought to cleanse spaces of negativity, symbolizing the purging of unwanted influences.
- Peace: With its calming scent, pennyroyal is often associated with peace and is used to soothe disturbances and restore calm.
WaterPennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) prefers consistent moisture, so it's important to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. This typically means watering once every 1-2 weeks, but frequency should be adjusted depending on climate and soil conditions to maintain moist soil without overwatering. When watering, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, which may require around 1 to 2 gallons depending on the size of the plant and the pot. During the hotter seasons or in drier climates, pennyroyal might need more frequent watering, but always check the soil moisture level to avoid waterlogging.
LightPennyroyal thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a location where it receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching. The ideal spot for pennyroyal is an east-facing or south-facing spot where it can get plenty morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade.
TemperaturePennyroyal does well in a broad range of temperatures, but it prefers the milder conditions between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive temperatures as low as 30°F and as high as 90°F, but these extremes are not optimal for growth. To ensure healthy growth, protect the plant from frost and extreme heat.
PruningPennyroyal should be pruned to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Prune lightly in the spring and more aggressively after flowering to encourage a second bloom. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. The best time for major pruning is in the early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) thrives in rich, loamy soil that retains moisture but is well-draining. To create the best soil mix, combine two parts peat, one part perlite, and one part compost. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingPennyroyal should be repotted annually to replenish the soil and accommodate its growth. It's best repotted in the spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingPennyroyal prefers moderate to high humidity levels, which help maintain its vigorous growth. Aim for a humidity level around 40-50% for optimal plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Pennyroyal in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Pennyroyal in partial shade with moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cyclePennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist soil during spring or early summer. The seedling emerges from the soil and develops into a herbaceous plant, producing a stem and a set of leaves that begin the process of photosynthesis. As it matures, Pennyroyal spreads through rhizomes and stolons, forming a dense mat of vegetative growth. It blooms in the late spring to summer, producing small lilac or purple flowers arranged in whorls around the stem, which are attractive to various pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced, which are then dispersed by wind, water, or animal activity, leading to new seedlings in the surrounding area. Pennyroyal is a perennial plant, so after the growing season, the aerial parts may die back, but the root system remains alive to resprout the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The common name for Mentha pulegium is Pennyroyal, and it is typically best propagated in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most active. The most popular method of propagation for Pennyroyal is by cuttings. To do this, you can take a 4 to 6-inch cutting from a healthy Pennyroyal plant, making sure to include at least one or two nodes where leaves attach as these areas contain cells that can develop into new roots. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and then insert it into a pot of soil or a container with a moistened mix of peat and perlite. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a location with indirect light. In a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and can be transplanted to their final growing location.
