200 Huacatay Seeds Black Mint | Peruvian Herb (Tagetes Minuta) 

 

Tested & packed 1-06-23, 90% Germ. 

Grow Zones: 5,6,7,8,9,10 

 

A citrusy and minty flavored herb--Huacatay is a well-loved, prominent staple in Peruvian cuisine. The aroma of this herb is reminiscent of mint, hence the name, black mint. Meanwhile, it is actually a relative of the marigold family. In fact, Huacatay is the source of "marigold oil". The leaves from the plant are used as a culinary spice and are a featured ingredient in Peruvian aji verde sauce. Use huacatay to make tea or flavor chicken, risotto, fish and starchy side items. 
 

Huacatay is very hardy so you can clip full branches off of it and it will vigorously grow right back. The plant grows up to 6 foot tall. Even better is, this plant is resistent to deer, groundhogs, and insect pests. So you can plant Black Mint Huacatay as a border around other plants that you want to protect them from. 

 

The strong roots will spread and choke out other weeds in the garden. Likewise, when planting Tagetes Minuta, take care not to plant it right next to your more tender-rooted garden herbs, flowers or vegetables. If you are growing many things in a small space, Huacatay can be planted in pots and will grow just fine. 
 
Finally, Huacatay is a medicinal herb that has been in use since ancient times. It's known as having: Anthelminthic, carminative, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, emmenagogue, fungicidal, and stomachic properties. 

 

Germination instructions: Sow seeds 1/8th of an inch deep. Keep seeds and soil moist during the germination phase. Germination takes up to 16 days. The warmer the soil, the quicker the seeds will germinate.