Mentha requienii aka Corsican Mint

Mentha requienii is known as Corsican mint or creeping mint. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its native range includes Corsica, Sardinia, and Montecristo in Italy. This small perennial forms a low, dense mat. It suits spaces where taller plants would hide paving or stones. Its leaves add scent as well as green cover.

The mat often stands just 0.04–0.08 feet [0.01–0.025 metres] tall. Published garden height limits reach 0.26–0.33 feet [0.08–0.1 metres]. Its spread reaches about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres]. Fine stems creep over the soil and take root. These stems let the plant form a wider patch. The small, round leaves are bright green and strongly scented. Crushing them releases a scent like peppermint, with a sage note. Leaves may stay green through mild winters. In colder places, the plant loses its leaves. Small lilac flowers grow in short spikes from June to August.

Corsican mint grows best in moist soil that drains well. Rich, light soil suits it, though it accepts other soils. The RHS lists both clay and loam as suitable. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Partial shade is a good choice for garden planting. It can grow in sun or deeper shade too. Afternoon shade helps where summers are hot. The plant does not cope well with drought. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 6–9; the RHS gives H7. North of USDA zone 6, gardeners may grow it annually. Self-sown plants can return for several years in suitable conditions.

Use this mint between paving stones where the soil stays moist. It handles light foot traffic, which releases the leaf scent. It also suits herb beds, rock gardens, and containers. In pots, its stems can trail over the edge. Divide plants in spring or autumn to make new plants. Trim after flowering when the mat needs tidying. It can spread beyond its space, though control is usually easy. Serious pest and disease problems are not usual. Sage leafhoppers and caterpillars may still attack it. Mint rust and powdery mildew can occur, especially during drought.

The leaves are edible raw or cooked. Use them to flavour salads, cooked dishes, tea, or liqueurs. They also serve as a garnish. Their strong taste means they work as a flavouring herb. Plants For A Future reports no toxicity records for this species. That statement does not establish safety for every use.