Herbs

Mentha arvensis 'Banana'

Banana mint

Also known as: Corn mint 'Banana'

Banana mint. Photo: krossbow / Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Small, softly downy green leaves release a banana-like scent. A spreading perennial for a contained herb garden. Cut back after flowering for fresh shoots.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Mature size: Height: Up to 18 in. · Spread: Up to 3 ft.; spreads farther
Water: Moist soil
Bloom: Small lilac clusters in summer.

Sizes & prices

#1$11.99
4.5''$6.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Drought: Keep moist; not a dry-site choice.
Wet soil: RHS lists poorly drained soil tolerance; not a flooding guarantee.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Pollinators

Culinary uses

Use: A culinary mint with banana-scented leaves.

Seasonal interest

Winter: Foliage dies back seasonally.

Growing & care

Containment: Use a deep container; roots spread vigorously.
Harvest: Harvest leafy stems before flowering for fresh use or drying; leave the plant to regrow between cuttings.

Cut back after flowering; divide in spring or fall.

Sources & photo credits

Royal Horticultural Society

Iowa State University Extension

Photo: krossbow / Flickr, CC BY 2.0; resized for web without enlargement. · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: Banana mint. Photo: krossbow / Flickr, CC BY 2.0; resized for web without enlargement.

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.