Mentha requienii, commonly called Corsican mint or creeping mint, is a miniature mat-forming plant that typically grows to only 1/2" to 1" tall but spreads by thread-like stems which creep along the ground rooting as they go 12" wide or more to form a dense flat diminutive ground cover. It is particularly effective as an aromatic filler growing around stepping stones where light foot traffic will release a pleasing mint/sage aroma. Leaves are evergreen in mild winter climates but not in St. Louis. This mint is native to the Islands of Corsica, Sardinia, and Montecristo. Tiny round green leaves (to 1/8" across) have a strong aroma when bruised. Leaves are the source of the flavoring in creme-de-menthe. Tiny minute lilac flowers bloom from the leaf axils in summer (late June -August). Flowers are so small they are often not seen.
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Hardiness | 6,7,8,9 |
| Heat Zones | 6,7,8,9 |
| Climate Zones | 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Plant Family | Lamiace |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring, Summer, Early Spring, Mid Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer, Late Summer |
| Height | < 1' |
| Spread | < 1' |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Acid |
| Characteristics | Fragrant, Semi-Evergreen, Rocky Soil Tolerant |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Japanese Garden, Traditional Garden |
| Planting Place | Beds and Borders, Edging, Ground Covers, Small Gardens, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |