Vietnamese mint (rau ram) isn't a true mint but delivers a hot, coriander-like punch to Southeast Asian salads and soups. It's a lush, spreading, warmth-loving herb that romps away in a moist raised bed.
Quick facts
- Position: part shade to full sun; loves warmth & moisture
- Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
- Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth
- Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks
When to plant: Vietnamese mint is frost-tender — plant in spring and summer. In warm, frost-free areas it's a lasting perennial; in cold zones, protect or overwinter a cutting. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.
Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into rich, constantly moist mix — it even grows in boggy spots and beside ponds. It spreads by runners, so contain it if space is tight. Cut it back to keep fresh growth coming.
Watering and feeding: Keep it moist at all times — unlike Mediterranean herbs, this one never wants to dry out.
Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.
Common problems: the main one to watch is rust, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.
Companion plants: Give it a moist corner; it grows well beside lemongrass and other Asian herbs. See our companion planting guide.
Harvest and storage: Pick sprigs and leaves as you need them; regular picking keeps it bushy. Always use it fresh.
More growing guides: mint, Thai basil and lemongrass.
Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.
Image: Qwert1234, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Share and get 15% off!
Simply share this product on one of the following social networks and you will unlock 15% off!