A refreshing standout in any herb garden, Hillary's Sweet Lemon Mint (Mentha 'Hillary's Sweet Lemon') is a unique hybrid of apple mint and lime mint, developed by Illinois gardener Jim Westerfield and named in honor of First Lady Hillary Clinton. This aromatic perennial boasts soft, silvery-green leaves that release a delightful citrus-mint fragrance, making it a favorite for teas, lemonades, and culinary creations. In summer, it produces charming spikes of pale lavender flowers, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Perennial zones 6-11.

Care

Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Hillary's Sweet Lemon Mint prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Regular watering keeps the plant lush, but be cautious of overwatering, as mint is sensitive to soggy conditions. To prevent its vigorous spread via rhizomes, consider planting in containers or using root barriers. Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering if a fuller foliage is desired. Hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, this mint is a resilient addition to various garden settings.

Growth Habit

• Height: 12-24 inches

• Spread: 12-36 inches

• Growth Rate: Fast-growing with a spreading habit

• Flowering: Pale lavender blooms in summer
  

Hillary's Sweet Lemon Mint is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, as with all plants, it's advisable to monitor pets to prevent excessive consumption. The plant's aromatic properties also make it resistant to deer and rabbit browsing.