Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

Pennyroyal is a valuable addition to food forests and permaculture systems due to its pest-repellent properties and ability to attract pollinators. Its ground-cover habit helps control weeds and prevent soil erosion, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing slopes or marginal areas. In silvopasture systems, it can be interplanted to improve the ecological health of grazing areas.

Pennyroyal grows as a low, spreading ground cover, producing small, aromatic leaves and clusters of purple or lavender flowers in summer. It expands horizontally through runners, creating a dense mat that helps suppress weeds. The plant grows rapidly during the spring and summer, going dormant in colder seasons but reliably returning year after year

Size at Maturity- Herbaceous Layer. Grows to 6-12 inches tall with a spreading habit

Current Size- A root clump. Enough to start a small patch that you can divide from once established.

Pennyroyal has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a natural insect repellent. Historically, it was strewn on floors to deter pests in homes. In food forestry, its aromatic foliage can help repel harmful insects while attracting beneficial pollinators. It is also valued for its ability to improve soil health by stabilizing ground layers with its dense, creeping growth. Pennyroyal has culinary uses in moderation, though care should be taken due to its potent essential oils.