Mentha (Mints)

The Mentha genus, commonly known as mints, offers valuable benefits to UK wildlife. These aromatic plants attract pollinators like bees and hoverflies with their nectar-rich flowers. Many mint species bloom from summer to autumn, providing a reliable food source when other plants fade.

Mints also support predatory insects, which help control garden pests. Their dense foliage shelters small invertebrates. Mentha aquatica (water mint) thrives in damp areas, making it ideal for wildlife ponds. Plant mint in sunny spots with moist soil for best growth. These hardy perennials spread readily, forming ground cover that shelters insects.