Pineapple Mint

Pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens 'Variegata') is a variegated sport of apple mint, its soft green leaves edged in creamy white. The flavor carries the same mild, fruity sweetness as apple mint, and its ornamental foliage makes it as valued for garden color as for the kitchen.

Growing Pineapple Mint

Pineapple mint prefers a bit more shade than other mints, since its lighter variegated leaves can scorch in intense afternoon sun. It spreads by runners just like its relatives and should be grown in a container to keep it contained, and occasional reversion to solid green growth should be pruned out to keep the variegation strong.

Culinary Uses

Its mild, fruity flavor and pretty variegated leaves make pineapple mint an excellent garnish for fruit salads, iced drinks, and desserts where visual appeal matters as much as flavor. It can be used anywhere apple mint would work.