Mentha aquatica

Water mint, Mentha aquatica, is a vigorous, herbaceous perennial with a wide native distribution, including Africa, Asia and Europe. In the UK it grows in the shallow waters of fens, streams, ditches and meadows.

It's a fantastic plant for wildlife, as the globose flowerheads are are accessible to a number of pollinators, including butterflies, bees and hoverflies. Water mint leaves also can be used to flavour dishes and drinks.

For best results, grow Mentha aquatica at the edge of a pond as a marginal, or in boggy soil, in full sun or partial shade.