Mentha spicata var. crispa 'Moroccan' - Moroccan Mint [UK Grown Culinary Herbs]

A wonderfully aromatic mint, Mentha spicata var. crispa ‘Moroccan’ is the go-to variety for traditional North African mint tea. It forms leafy, upright clumps of crinkled green foliage with a refreshing, sweet scent and flavour. This vigorous grower is best kept in a container to prevent it from spreading too enthusiastically, and will thrive with regular watering and a little afternoon shade.

Mentha spicata var. crispa ‘Moroccan’, commonly known as Moroccan Mint, is a must-have for culinary gardens. It’s highly aromatic, easy to grow, and loved by pollinators when in flower.

Scientific Name
Mentha spicata var. crispa ‘Moroccan’ (a cultivar of spearmint, Mentha spicata)

Crispa means ‘curled’ or ‘crinkled’, referencing the texture of the leaves

Common Names
Moroccan Mint, Moroccan Spearmint

Origin
Originally from North Africa; now widely cultivated for culinary use

Pruning Tips
Harvest regularly to encourage fresh growth. Cut back hard after flowering or if plants become leggy. Divide clumps every 2–3 years

Wildlife Value
Flowers attract bees and hoverflies. Dense growth offers shelter for insects

Positioning
Full sun to partial shade. Ideal in pots, herb gardens, or tucked into part-shaded borders

Water
Keep soil consistently moist – mint does not like to dry out

Soil
Moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Avoid letting pots dry out during summer

Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks with a general-purpose liquid fertiliser during the growing season

Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets

Sprouts Top Tips
Best grown in a large pot or container to control its vigorous roots. Place near a seating area or kitchen door so you can pick leaves easily for drinks, salads, and sauces.