This herb dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or part shade
• Soil: humus-rich, moisture retentive soil
• Rate of growth: fast
• Flowering period: July to August
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  The distinctive flavour of this herb works well with tomatoes, as well as adding a bit of zing to sliced melon or salads. It can also be used to make pesto - and it is delicious when used with balsamic vinegar. An easy to grow herb, it will soon spread to form a generous clump, and looks very pretty with its red flushed stems and lilac flowers in summer.
  
  
• Garden care: When plants have finished flowering in summer, cut flowered shoots back to 5cm above the surface of the compost. Mint can be vigorous in the garden so unless you want a large clump, you can contain it by planting it in a large pot - but do keep it well watered.