Mentha pulegium aka Pennyroyal

Mentha pulegium, commonly known as European pennyroyal or pennyrile, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, this creeping, semi-evergreen perennial emits a strong fragrance similar to spearmint when its leaves are crushed. Although it rarely flowers, when it does, it produces small, pale pink flowers in clusters around the stem. While European pennyroyal has been traditionally used as a folk remedy, emmenagogue, abortifacient, and culinary herb, it is important to note that it can be toxic to the liver and has even caused fatalities. It is related to an American species called Hedeoma pulegioides, despite their differing genera. This variety of mint is not edible and can be invasive in wetland regions. Despite its declining popularity, growing pennyroyal in the herb or perennial garden can still add a decorative touch with its reddish-purple to lilac blooms.