Growing pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is not a culinary herb, but it is worth growing for several other reasons. Mainly, it is one of the best natural insect repellents, and it smells better than many commercial insect repellents. It is a durable plant which will survive periods of neglect.

Plant pennyroyal in a dedicated spot in the garden. Pennyroyal is an aggressive spreading herb which sends shoots out from its roots from which new plants pop up. It takes over its surrounding space, so plant in dedicated beds or grow it in pots. If growing in pots, choose at least an 8-inch pot. Grow pennyroyal in full sun or partial shade. Pennyroyal is adaptable to many light conditions, but does not thrive in full shade.