KUBANSKAYA 6

Kubanskaya 6 is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Labiatae family, up to 45 cm high, possessing a pronounced aroma due to its high menthol content. The leaves are green and egg-shaped-lanceolate with hairs on the underside, while the stems are erect. Blooming occurs in July–August; small light purple flowers form spike-like inflorescences.

The plant prefers moist sunny or semi-shaded areas and grows well on loose loamy and sandy-loam soils. For cultivation, direct sowing (April–June) and seedling transplanting (March–April) are used. Seeds are typically stored in a refrigerator for a month before planting, then gently pressed into the soil, covered with plastic film, and placed in a sunny spot. When 3–5 pairs of true leaves appear, the plant is transplanted into open ground.

Kubanskaya mint is widely used both in cuisine and in pharmacy. In fresh and dried forms, it serves as a seasoning for dishes, a flavoring for teas, beverages, and fruit salads. Leaves and stems are used to obtain essential oil and menthol, which are applied for respiratory, stomach, liver diseases, neuralgia, migraine, heart disorders, and hypertension. Products from this variety also find application in the food and perfume industries due to their rich taste and aroma.