Small-leaved mint Plant Care

Small-leaved mint (Mentha parvifolia) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Mentha genus. Small-leaved mint is native to the temperate regions of Europe and western and central Asia, east to the Himalaya and eastern Siberia, and North America.

Small-leaved mint displays a spreading, mat-forming herb growth habit, reaching up to 1 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Small-leaved mint produces small, lilac to white flowers in terminal spikes.

Leaf size: approximately 1 inches.

Mentha parvifolia requires watering every 3–5 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Small-leaved mint thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Mentha parvifolia grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Small-leaved mint prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Good drainage is essential for Small-leaved mint to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Small-leaved mint every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Divide and repot every 2-3 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Small-leaved mint can be propagated through division, stem cuttings, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to spearmint plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Small-leaved mint is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, mint rust. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Small-leaved mint grows outdoors in USDA Zone 4a – 9b. It survives winters down to planting zone 4a. Small-leaved mint is native to the temperate regions of Europe and western and central Asia, east to the Himalaya and eastern Siberia, and North America.