Greek Mountain Team Mint with tea on a white background.
Greek Mountain Tea Mint in a wooden basket with glass of tea and pocketknife on a dark background.
A refreshing glass of tea made from Greek Mountain Tea Mint with fresh leaves.
Greek Mountain Tea Mint growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek in Mansfield, Missouri.
Greek Mountain Team Mint with tea on a white background.
Greek Mountain Tea Mint in a wooden basket with glass of tea and pocketknife on a dark background.
A refreshing glass of tea made from Greek Mountain Tea Mint with fresh leaves.
Greek Mountain Tea Mint growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek in Mansfield, Missouri.

Mint Seeds,
Greek Mountain Tea

34 ReviewsSKU: #HB348Min. seed count: 35
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Description

(Sideritis scardica) Brew a mellow and minty cup of herbal tea or attract pollinators to the garden with this delicious herbaceous perennial. Endemic to the mountainous areas of the Balkan peninsula, this low-growing sub-shrub reaches 15 inches tall and about 1 foot wide. Also known as ironwort, the sword-shaped leaves are long and silvery, with a slightly fuzzy texture.

Growing Tips: Greek Mountain Tea mint, thrives in well-draining, sandy, or gritty soils. It is native to high-altitude regions and is adapted to dry, rocky conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal water. Regular pruning after flowering encourages bushier growth and more blooms for future harvests.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Sideritis scardica
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 7–11
Sun Requirement
Partial sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Planting Depth
Surface sow
Plant Spacing
18 in.
Ideal Temperature
55–90°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Greek Mountain Tea is a perennial herb in USDA Zones 7-11, where it tolerates winter lows near 0 F in sharply drained soil. Wet winter ground is more dangerous to it than cold, so plant it in the spring after the last frost, especially in cooler climates. In colder zones, grow it in a container that can be moved indoors during freezing weather, or treat it as an annual. If you're not sure how to find your USDA Zone or local first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

If starting indoors, fill a pot with well-draining soil and moisten it. It may be helpful to scar the seeds lightly with sandpaper to help germination. Sow seeds on the surface and press them gently into the soil. Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot, keeping the soil moist until germination. Once seedlings are large enough, transplant them to individual pots or directly into the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Space plants 18-24 inches apart.

How to Grow

Greek Mountain Tea prefers a sunny location with excellent drainage. Water it regularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it prefers drier conditions once established. It grows up to 16 inches tall and can spread up to 12 inches, producing pale yellow flowers in late summer. Harvest the leaves and flowers when they are fully developed for the best flavor, typically in the summer​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Seeds are mature once the flower heads have fully dried and turned brown. To harvest them, cut the flower spikes and place them inside a paper bag. This allows the seeds to completely dry and drop; you may need to shake the bag gently to help loosen the seeds. Afterward, separate any chaff from the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
  • Many people prefer propagating mint plants through cuttings as it is generally easier than growing from seeds. Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water until roots develop. Then, plant it in the soil.

FAQ

Is Greek Mountain Tea the same as Ironwort?

Yes, Greek Mountain Tea is a type of ironwort, and both belong to the Sideritis genus. These plants are often used interchangeably in herbal teas.

Is Greek Mountain Tea a perennial?

Yes, it is a perennial plant, meaning it can live and produce for several years, particularly in mild climates. In cooler regions it can be grown as an annual or grown in pots that can be brought inside during colder months.

How do you harvest Greek Mountain Tea?

Harvest by cutting the stems when the plant is in full bloom. The leaves and flowers are typically dried for later use in teas.

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