Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal Plants For Sale

Mentha pulegium

The pennyroyal plant is a hardy, aromatic herb with practical and ornamental benefits, making it an excellent addition to any garden. At The Growers Exchange, we're proud to offer high-quality pennyroyal plants for sale alongside our wide selection of medicinal, culinary, and ornamental herbs.

What Is the Pennyroyal Plant?

The pennyroyal plant (Mentha pulegium), also called European pennyroyal, is a low-growing member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is known for its remarkable ability to thrive despite poor soil and less-than-ideal conditions. This resilience has earned it nicknames like run-by-the-ground and lurk-in-the-ditch. 

Pennyroyal is not only visually appealing with its vibrant green leaves and delicate purple flowers – it's also quite useful. Its strong, spearmint-like aroma is a natural pest-repellent, making pennyroyal a practical choice for gardeners seeking beauty and utility.

Pennyroyal Appearance and Characteristics

The pennyroyal mint plant has a compact, mat-like structure and typically grows to about 6 to 12 inches in height. Its bright green leaves release a potent minty scent when crushed. In late summer, the plant blooms with clusters of tiny purple flowers that add color to outdoor spaces and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

While it's a tough plant that can survive in poor soil and disturbed areas, pennyroyal thrives in well-tended gardens. Its ability to repel mosquitoes and other insects makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking for eco-friendly pest control solutions.

Pennyroyal Origins and History

The pennyroyal plant has been valued for thousands of years, with records of its use in ancient Greece, Rome, and medieval Europe. Historically, pennyroyal was a natural remedy for digestive and reproductive issues. It was also often hung in homes to ward off pests and freshen the air.

Although pennyroyal was commonly used in herbal remedies in the past, modern research has identified serious risks associated with its consumption. The Pennyroyal plant's essential oil, in particular, is highly toxic, even in small doses. It should never be ingested or taken internally.

Important Safety Information About Pennyroyal

• Pennyroyal oil's primary active ingredient, pulegone, can cause severe adverse effects, including damage to the liver and kidney, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory failure, and multiple organ failure. There is no safe dosage for pennyroyal oil. 

• Pregnant women should not handle or use pennyroyal plants or pennyroyal oil. 

• Pennyroyal is toxic to dogs and cats. If you have pets, please take precautions to prevent them from ingesting it. Here are some recommendations:

• Plant in a secluded area

• Use fencing or barriers

• Monitor your pets closely

• Consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet's safety around pennyroyal 

Please consult a doctor before using any form of pennyroyal to avoid bodily harm.

Pennyroyal Plant Care: Growing Tips

Watching for the pennyroyal mint plant is simple, which is why it's popular among beginner gardeners. Here are some pennyroyal plant care tips for growing this herb successfully: 

Light: Pennyroyal thrives in full sun but can grow in partial shade. It should receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.

Temperature: This resilient herb does well in USDA Hardiness Zones 6-9. It can handle cooler temperatures; it may stay evergreen in milder climates throughout the year.

Soil: Though it tolerates poor soil, pennyroyal prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Providing loamy, fertile soil will promote stronger growth.

Watering: Pennyroyal enjoys regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist, but don't overwater, as this causes root rot.

Fertilizing: This plant doesn't require heavy feeding, but applying a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in spring will help it flourish.

Pruning: Pruning is essential to control the spread of this hardy herb. Regularly trim the plant to keep it tidy and encourage dense growth. Deadheading spent flowers can also extend the blooming period.

Uses and Benefits of Pennyroyal Plants

The pennyroyal plant offers a variety of uses and benefits that make it a valuable addition to your garden:

• Natural Pest Control: As mentioned, pennyroyal's pungent, minty scent is a natural deterrent to mosquitoes, fleas, and other pests, making it an ideal plant to grow near outdoor seating areas.

• Ground Cover: With its spreading habit, pennyroyal works well as a ground cover. It's especially useful for filling gaps between stepping stones or creating a green carpet in garden beds.

• Pollinator Attraction: The small, purple flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting the health of the local ecosystem.

• Fragrance: The strong minty scent of pennyroyal makes it an excellent ingredient for fragrant sachets and potpourri, which provide a natural way to freshen up indoor spaces.

Discover Pennyroyal Plants and Other Herbs at The Growers Exchange

Pennyroyal is an excellent choice if you're looking for a versatile herb that can add beauty, fragrance, and practical benefits to your garden. Its adaptability, ease of care, and multiple uses make it a valuable addition to any outdoor space.

At The Growers Exchange, we offer high-quality pennyroyal plants for sale, along with a wide variety of other live herbs ready for planting in your garden. Whether you're seeking popular herbs like rosemary and thyme or less-common options like lemongrass and turmeric, you'll find everything you need for your garden in our selection.

Shop online today or contact us for more information. We're happy to help you grow a beautiful and thriving herb garden.