Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a natural hybrid of watermint and spearmint. It grows 30 to 90 cm tall and spreads quickly through its runners, so it is happiest in a large pot or a corner of the garden where it can take over without bothering other plants.
For distillation you use the leaves and the upper part of the stems. They give a cool, minty essential oil and a wonderfully refreshing hydrosol. Peppermint is one of the classic plants for home distilling because it grows back after cutting, often giving you two harvests in one season.
Timing matters. The best moment to harvest is just before the plant starts to flower, when the leaves hold the most aroma. Cut the stems on a dry morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the midday sun.
Then let the stems wilt for about a day in a shady, airy place. This removes part of the water from the leaves, so you can fit more plant material in the basket and the distillation runs more efficiently. Do not let them dry completely if you want the freshest scent.
In the glass column, peppermint is a beautiful sight: bright green leaves packed loosely in the copper basket, with steam rising through them. The minty scent is often the first thing people notice when they walk into the room.
Do you grow mint at home? This is the season to plan next year's peppermint bed.