Mentha arvensis aka Mint
Taxonomy ID: 11190
Mentha arvensis, also known as corn mint, field mint, or wild mint, is a low-growing, spreading perennial plant belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to temperate regions of Europe, western and central Asia, and North America, with a circumboreal distribution. This plant is often found in moist areas, particularly along streams.
The Mentha arvensis species includes Mentha canadensis as well, which is considered as two varieties: M. arvensis var. glabrata Fernald and M. arvensis var. piperascens Malinv. ex L. H. Bailey. The former is found in North America, such as American Wild Mint, while the latter is found in eastern Asian regions, like Japanese mint.
Mentha arvensis grows up to 45cm tall and spreads up to 1m wide. Its small, bright-green, ovate leaves are slightly downy, toothed, and have a distinctive banana scent when crushed. During the summer, clusters of small, lilac flowers bloom.
Throughout history, Native Americans utilized field mint tea as a remedy for colds, and it continues to be used today for teas and food flavorings. This unique-looking mint plant features a square stem, ranging from 6 to 18 inches in height, adorned with tufts of flowers spaced at regular intervals. For the best flavor, mature field mint leaves are typically harvested in the morning. They can be enjoyed fresh, chopped in iced tea, sprinkled on salads, or incorporated into various dishes. Additionally, the leaves can be dried for long-term storage.
Common names
Mint, Field Mint, Wild MintMore information about Mint
How difficult is it to take care of Mint
Caring for Mint is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the growth pattern and size of Mint?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Mint as it grows vertically.
What is the region of origin of Mint
Mint’s native range is Worldwide.
What are the water needs for Mint
Mint should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Mint
Mint loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Mint
To ensure optimal growth, the Mint prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
What's the right humidity for Mint
No extra humidity is necessary for the Mint. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.
Is Mint toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
What seasonal care does Mint need?
During the cold period, it is common for Mint to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Mentha Genus

Mentha canadensis American Corn Mint

Mentha requienii Corsican Mint

Mentha diemenica Wild Mint
Mentha piperata Berries And Cream Mint

Mentha cervina Hart's Pennyroyal

Mentha villosa Apple Mint
Mentha australis Australian Mint

Mentha suaveolens Apple Mint

Mentha longifolia Wild Mint
