pagamint

Pagamint, scientifically referred to as Mentha × pagamintensis, is a cultivated hybrid within the mint family Lamiaceae. It is derived from a cross between common mint (Mentha spicata) and spearmint (Mentha spicata), though the parentage may vary slightly in different cultivars. The plant typically reaches a height of 30 to 45 cm, with aromatic, ovate leaves that are finely dissected and a subtle purple hue on the undersides. Flowers are small, mauve to pale blue, blooming in panicles across the stem during late summer.

The species is cultivated primarily for its culinary and medicinal properties. The leaves yield a sweet, citrusy flavor reminiscent of spearmint, with a more subdued menthol intensity than common mint. In many culinary traditions, pagamint is used in herb mixes, sauces, and as a fresh or dried garnish, especially in salads and seafood dishes. Its essential oil is extracted for use in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and traditional preparations aimed at promoting digestion, easing muscular tension, and providing mild anti-inflammatory relief. Health practitioners sometimes recommend pagamint tea as a soothing remedy for colds, sore throats, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Pagamint thrives in temperate climates, preferring well‑drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter. It demands full sun to partial shade and benefits from regular moistening, especially during dry spells. The plant is prolific and spreads via lateral roots, making it suitable for both garden beds and container growth. Propagation is most commonly performed by stem cuttings that root readily in damp, well‑furnished soil, or by using division in late spring. Because of its vigorous growth, pagamint is often managed with periodic mowing or trimming to maintain desirable size and vigor.

The plant can be found in most commercial herb markets across Europe and North America, where it is marketed under various brand names. Its presence has also increased in home gardens for its pleasant scent and low maintenance. The accepted use of pagamint is supported by several horticultural seed catalogs and several herbal medicine reference books that include details about its cultivation, applications, and safety profile.