You can grow this mint in the garden or in pots, for fresh mint all summer long.

I believe English strawberries taste the best because England experiences the longest daylight hours, combined with classic Wimbledon weather. These same growing conditions yield the zingiest mint, unrivalled by cheaper imports.

How to serve

Rinse a handful of fresh mint leaves to remove any impurities. To release aromatic oils, bruise the leaves by pressing them between your fingers. Place the leaves in a heatproof container and pour boiling water over them. Allow the mint to steep for about 5-10 minutes, then strain the tea into cups and sweeten with honey if desired. Delicious hot or cold.

Where to buy

To get Black Mitcham mint plug plants, email Mad About Mint at joanne@madaboutmint.co.uk and this nursery in Cheshire will deliver six plugs for £11.78, including postage (www.madaboutmint.co.uk).

Jonathon Jones discovers teas from around the world, finds new flavours and cultivation techniques, and takes English tea to Asia.