herb

Mentha Requienii is a member of the mint family of plants and commonly referred to as Corsican Mint. It is a very fragrant, hearty and fast-growing perennial that is perfect as a ground cover. It features bright green leaves and the iconic square stem of mints. It is known for having a strong minty-sage aroma, which is why it is frequently used in the culinary capacity for flavoring.  This mint is native to Corsica, Italy and Sardinia, but has been naturalized in similar environments elsewhere.  Corsican Mint is low growing and likes partial shade with moist soil. Drying out the plant between watering will help increase the hardiness of the plant, as well as essential oil production. This results in a stronger and more flavorful herb! 

Unique, Medicinal Herb with a Strong Flavor Common Names: Giâp Cá, Fish Mint, Lizard Tail, Heartleaf, Chameleon PlantFamily: SaururaceaeOrigin: Southeast Asia Giâp Cá (Houttuynia cordata), commonly known as Fish Mint or Lizard Tail, is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia. This unique herb is known for its strong fishy aroma and is widely used in Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines, particularly in salads, soups, and as a garnish. It is also prized for its medicinal properties, which have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Giâp Cá is a hardy plant that thrives in wet, shady conditions, making it an ideal addition to herb gardens or as a ground cover in moist areas. Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value Leaves: The heart-shaped leaves of Giâp Cá are dark green with a purple tint and have a distinctive fishy aroma that intensifies when crushed. The leaves are edible and are often used in salads or as a garnish in Southeast Asian cuisine.Flowers: The plant produces small, white flowers that grow in spikes, though it is primarily grown for its foliage.Growth Habit: Giâp Cá grows as a low, spreading herb, reaching up to 1-2 feet in height. It spreads via underground rhizomes and can quickly cover large areas, making it an effective ground cover in moist, shady locations. Culinary and Medicinal Uses Giâp Cá is widely used in Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisine. The fresh leaves are often added to salads, spring rolls, or served as a garnish for soups and grilled dishes. The fishy, pungent flavor of the leaves pairs well with strong flavors like garlic, chili, and fermented foods. In Vietnam, Giâp Cá is commonly used as a fresh herb in raw salads or served alongside grilled meats and fish. Medicinally, Giâp Cá has been used in traditional Chinese and Vietnamese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties. The plant is believed to help detoxify the body, support respiratory health, and treat infections. The leaves can be made into a tea or tincture for medicinal purposes.