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A member of the family Lamiaceae, red raripila mint plants (Mentha x smithiana) are hybrid plants composed of the corn mint (Mentha arvensis), watermint (Mentha aquatica), and spearmint (Mentha spicata). More commonly used in Northern and Central Europe, acquiring red raripila plants may require a bit more research, as other mint varieties are more popular in the United States and Canada, but well worth the effort for its lovely, green/red leaves with red stems.
Mint plants are popular additions to herb gardens and kitchens thanks to their fragrant flavorful leaves. But did you know that some mint varieties also stand out for their vibrant red stems? These eye-catching mints provide visual interest along with the usual minty benefits.
What Causes the Red Coloring in Mint Stems?
The red pigmentation seen in certain mint stems is caused by high levels of anthocyanins Anthocyanins are plant compounds that provide the red, blue, and purple colors in many flowers, fruits, and leaves. They act as a sunscreen for the plant, protecting the tissues from damage under intense light Cooler temperatures, drought stress, and nutrient deficiencies can all spur anthocyanin production and lead to deep red plant parts.
Popular Red Stem Mint Varieties
There are several mint species and cultivars that are prized for their showy red stems. Some to look for include:
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Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) – This natural hybrid mint has purple-red stems and green leaves with a strong peppermint aroma It grows up to 3 feet tall
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Candy Mint (Mentha x piperita ‘Candy’) – A cultivar of peppermint with bright red stems and refreshing candy-cane scent. Grows 18 inches tall.
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Lavender Mint (Mentha x piperita ‘Lavender’) – Features red stems and lavender-scented foliage. Upright form reaches 2 feet tall.
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Ginger Mint (Mentha x gracilis) – Has square red stems up to 15 inches tall. Leaves smell like ginger with minty undertones.
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Pineapple Mint (Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’) – Variegated mint with red stems and mild fruity scent. Grows 18 inches tall.
Growing Tips for Red Stem Mint
Here are some key things to know when cultivating mint with red stems:
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Sun Exposure – Plant in full sun to maximize vivid stem color. Some afternoon shade in hot climates is okay.
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Soil – Rich, moist soil encourages growth. Improve drainage by mixing in compost.
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Water – Keep soil consistently moist. Red stems can fade if plants dry out.
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Containment – Grow in containers or beds with vertical barriers to prevent spreading.
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Pruning – Pinching back mint encourages bushy growth with more red stems. Remove faded flowers.
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Fertilizer – Feed container plants monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Using Red Stem Mint
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Add young leaves to beverages, desserts, fruit salads, and more.
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Use cut stems as drink garnishes. Float in ice water or lemonade.
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Make tea from fresh or dried leaves.
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Add sprigs to floral arrangements for pops of color.
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Infuse vinegars, oils, and spirits with leaves and stems.
Troubleshooting Problems
Issues like leggy growth, loss of red color, wilting, and pests can arise. Fix these problems by improving light exposure, monitoring soil moisture, pinching back plants, and using organic pest control measures.
The Unique Allure of Red Stem Mint
Mint varieties with vivid red stems bring eye-catching color to gardens and containers. Their striking stems contrast beautifully with the classic green mint foliage. With some basic care, these hardy perennial mints will thrive for years of ornamental and culinary use. Try adding one of these red-stemmed mints to your outdoor space or kitchen garden.
Red Raripila Mint Information
Pollinated and extremely popular to bees and butterflies makes the red raripila mint extremely susceptible to cross-hybridization. Growing red raripila mint plants are, however, not attractive to deer, making them a nice addition to rural landscapes. Red raripila mint is also a great companion plant to vegetable crops such as cabbages and tomatoes as they act as a deterrent to troublesome insect pests. As mentioned, it may be a bit more of a challenge to obtain these plants in North America, but if one does obtain seed, be aware that this little hybrid is generally sterile and thus, the seed will usually not breed true. If, however, seed is acquired, it may be sown in the spring in a cold frame and has a relatively quick germination. Once the red raripila plants attain some size, transplant them to pots or another restrictive growing area. Red raripila mint is easily divisible and should be done in spring or fall, although the plant is fairly tolerant of division most any time of the year. Any portion of the root is capable of creating a new plant and will establish rapidly with a limited amount of fuss.
Care of Red Raripila Mint
Care of red raripila plants, as for all mint varieties, is fairly simple. Like all mint plants, red raripila plants are aggressive spreaders once established and should be planted either in pots or in a confined area. Easy to grow, this little perennial succeeds in almost any type of soil as long as it is not too arid, including heavily clay-laden soils. Care of red raripila mint includes slightly acidic soil. Growing red raripila mint plants may be sown in areas of full sun to partial shade, although to boost the production of essential oils, full sun exposure is most advantageous.
How to Grow TONS of Mint (And Not Let it Take Over)
FAQ
What does it mean when a plant stem turns red?
If a stem is totally exposed to strong direct light, it will often turn red, pink, or purple over time. If this is the cause, you’ll likely notice that any parts of the stem that are in shade will stay green. This is a defense mechanism by the plant to protect the stems from too much light.
What mint plant has purple stems?
The stems of perilla mint are square in cross section, erect, hairy, somewhat branched and green or purple.
Can I eat mint with mint rust?
Mint that has been infected with rust cannot be eaten. Eventually the leaves will die and drop off and the plant will become stunted.
What is ginger mint used for?
Edible Uses
They are used as a flavouring in salads or cooked foods[61, 105]. A refreshing odour and taste[183], they are said to go particularly well with melon, tomatoes and fruit salads[238]. The slight ginger scent make them an interesting addition to fresh salads[244]. A herb tea is made from the leaves.