Lidya Mint

Description

Uncover the gentle, refreshing character of Russian White Peppermint ‘Lidya’, a mint variety that combines sweetness, subtle spice, and a whisper of chocolatey depth in its aromatic profile. This distinctive herb thrives best in warmer climates, and while it can be grown in the UK, it benefits from protection in cooler regions—making it a prime candidate for pots, patios, and sheltered herb beds.

Its soft green leaves and silvery undertones give it an elegant, understated presence, and the flavour—though sometimes labelled as peppermint—is distinctly spearminty in character, without the assertive menthol punch of true peppermint. It’s an excellent herb for salads, chilled soups, and teas, offering a soft, aromatic lift rather than overwhelming intensity.

The name ‘Lidya’ brings with it a swirl of speculation and charm. Some have wondered if it refers to the famed Soviet pilot Lydia Litvyak, the “White Rose of Stalingrad,” possibly invoking the pale green-white hue of the plant’s foliage and floral tone. Others point to Ukrainian roots, though the strongest case may be geographic—Lidya, the ancient region in western Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), a place with a long herbal tradition. In that context, ‘Lidya’ Mint bears remarkable resemblance in habit, scent, and texture to both Cyprus Mint and Dionysus Mint, hinting at a shared Eastern Mediterranean lineage.

Whatever its true origin, Russian White Peppermint ‘Lidya’ brings a sense of story and intrigue to your garden. Milder than peppermint, cooler than common spearmint, and uniquely versatile, it’s a mint to savour—especially in light summer dishes, mint yoghurts, or simply enjoyed as a soothing herbal infusion. A mint with mystery, elegance, and culinary grace.