Apple mint Mentha suaveolens
ABOUT
Mentha suaveolens, also known as apple mint, is a perennial herb that is well-loved for its aromatic leaves. This plant is characterized by its round to ovate leaves that typically exhibit a fuzzy or woolly texture, which can make them quite soft to the touch. These leaves are light green with a slightly greyish tint, adding to their distinctive look. The edges of the leaves are often serrated or toothed, giving them a somewhat ruffled appearance. During the blooming period, apple mint produces small flowers that are arranged in terminal spikes. The color of the flowers can range from pale pink to lilac, and they contribute to the plant's ornamental value. Apple mint possesses a refreshing fragrance that is reminiscent of apples, hence its common name. When the leaves are bruised or crushed, this scent becomes more pronounced, which is why it's favored for use in culinary applications, teas, and as a fragrant addition to gardens. The stems of apple mint are square-shaped, aligning with the characteristic trait of plants in the mint family. These stems can become quite robust and carry the weight of the leaves and flowers well. Overall, the plant has a sprawling habit with a tendency to spread, and in favorable conditions, it can cover the ground around it with its lush, aromatic foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Apple Mint, Woolly Mint, Round-Leaved Mint, Pineapple Mint.
Common names
Mentha rotundifolia, Mentha macrostachya, Mentha insularis, Mentha rotundifolia var. rotundifolia, Mentha rotundifolia var. smithiana, Mentha tomentella, Pulegium rotundifolium, Pulegium tomentosum, Mentha suaveolens var. suaveolens, Mentha suaveolens var. insularis.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Mentha suaveolens is apple mint. Apple mint is not typically considered toxic to humans, and parts of the plant are often used in culinary applications for their flavor. However, as with any plant, some individuals may experience adverse reactions or allergies when ingesting or handling it. If an individual is allergic to apple mint, they might experience symptoms such as itching, redness, and irritation in the mouth and throat area upon consumption. In rare cases and usually only when consumed in very large quantities, one might experience gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea or diarrhea. Nevertheless, under normal circumstances and in moderate amounts, apple mint is generally safe for human consumption.
To pets
Apple mint is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for animals like dogs and cats when consumed in small quantities. However, individual pets may have varying sensitivities, and consuming large amounts could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. As a precaution, it's advisable to prevent pets from ingesting large volumes of any non-food plant, including apple mint, and to monitor them for any signs of adverse reactions if they do consume it. If an adverse reaction is observed, consulting a veterinarian is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Mentha suaveolens, commonly known as apple mint, can be used in a variety of dishes and drinks for its fresh, minty flavor, such as in teas, jellies, and desserts.
- Aromatic Properties: The leaves of apple mint contain essential oils that release a pleasant fragrance, which can be used to scent rooms and closets.
- Gardening: Apple mint is an easy-to-grow perennial that can be used for ground cover and to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Landscape Design: Due to its attractive foliage and tendency to spread, apple mint can be utilized as an ornamental plant in landscape design.
- Culinary Garnish: The leaves of apple mint can be used as a decorative and edible garnish on food plates and drinks.
- Companion Planting: Apple mint can be planted alongside other crops to enhance growth and deter pests, due to its strong scent that repels various insects.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Mentha suaveolens has been used to relieve spasms or cramps in the muscles.
- Carminative: It may help in relieving flatulence and gastrointestinal discomfort by aiding in the expulsion of gas from the intestines.
- Antimicrobial: Contains compounds that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, contributing to its use in preventing or treating infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: May have properties that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.
- Analgesic: It has been utilized for its pain-relieving effects, especially in cases of minor aches and pains.
- Expectorant: Mentha suaveolens could help in relieving the symptoms of coughs and colds by aiding in the clearance of mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Gastrointestinal soothing: It is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and other digestive complaints.
- Mild sedative: There may be some sedative effects, which could help in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation or sleep.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mentha suaveolens, commonly known as apple mint, can be used as a natural rodent repellent due to its strong scent that rodents tend to avoid.
- In the garden, apple mint functions as a companion plant, deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects with its flowers.
- Dried apple mint leaves can be infused into oils or vinegars to create uniquely flavored dressings and marinades.
- Its vigorous growth habit makes apple mint an excellent choice for erosion control on banks and slopes.
- Apple mint can be used in potpourri blends for a refreshing and invigorating aroma.
- The plant has been utilized in the textile industry for its potential use in natural dyeing processes.
- Used as a flavoring agent, apple mint can enhance the taste of homemade jellies, syrups, and fruit dishes.
- When planted along walkways or borders, apple mint releases a pleasant scent when brushed against or crushed underfoot.
- The leaves of apple mint can serve as a natural breath freshener when chewed.
- Some cultures traditionally use apple mint leaves as a natural cleaning scrub for dishes and household surfaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiApple mint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityApple mint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Refreshment - Mentha suaveolens, commonly known as apple mint, symbolizes refreshment due to its cooling and revitalizing flavor, often associated with a sense of renewal and invigoration.
- Hospitality - In historical customs, offering a guest a sprig of apple mint or a drink infused with it is seen as a gesture of welcome and kindness.
- Healing - Apple mint is linked to healing properties, both in a physical and metaphorical sense, owing to its use in traditional remedies for stomach aches and other ailments.
- Transformation - The strong and pervasive growth habit of mint represents transformation and the ability to thrive, symbolizing personal growth and the ability to adapt to various conditions.
WaterApple mint requires consistent moisture and should not be left to dry out completely. It is important to water it deeply once or twice a week depending on the climate, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In hotter and drier conditions, watering may need to be increased to maintain soil moisture. During the growing season, apple mint might require about 1-2 gallons of water per week, while in cooler weather, less water may be necessary.
LightApple mint thrives in full to partial sunlight, so placing it in a spot where it receives morning sun and some afternoon shade would be ideal. This herb grows well in bright, indirect light but can tolerate several hours of direct sunlight. Avoiding intense afternoon sun will help prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureApple mint prefers a temperate climate and grows best in temperatures between 55°F and 70°F. It can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F, but growth will be slower. This herb’s maximum temperature tolerance is around 90°F before it begins to experience stress.
PruningPruning apple mint is important to encourage bushier growth and to remove any leggy or yellowing stems. It should be pruned in the spring and again in midsummer to promote a fresh flush of leaves. Deadheading the flowers will prevent the plant from becoming invasive by self-seeding.
CleaningAs needed
SoilApple mint thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix consisting of equal parts peat, perlite, and compost will provide the nutrients and aeration apple mint needs.
RepottingApple mint should be repotted every 1-2 years to replenish its soil and prevent it from becoming root-bound, as it has a vigorous root system.
Humidity & MistingApple mint prefers a moderate to high humidity level but is adaptable and can thrive in a range of humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place apple mint in bright, indirect light with good air circulation indoors.
Outdoor
Plant apple mint in partial shade to full sun with moist soil.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 5-9.
Life cycleMentha suaveolens, commonly known as apple mint, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in fertile, moist soil and given adequate sunlight and warmth, will germinate. The seedling stage is marked by the emergence of the first true leaves, after which the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, rapidly producing more leaves and stems, and potentially spreading through runners. As it matures, apple mint develops a robust root system and can become quite bushy. Upon reaching maturity during the warmer months, apple mint produces flower spikes with small, lilac-colored flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, these flowers will set seeds, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, while the parent plant may die back in colder climates or persist as a perennial in milder regions. Throughout its lifecycle, apple mint propagates both through seed and vegetatively, ensuring the persistence of the species in suitable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method for propagating apple mint, which is the common name for Mentha suaveolens, is through stem cuttings. This process involves taking a cutting from a healthy parent plant during the active growing season, generally spring or early summer, when the plant's growth is most vigorous. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and have several leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, although this step is optional as mint often roots easily. The cutting is then placed in moist soil or a water container until roots develop. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into the garden or a pot with well-draining soil, where it should be kept moist and in indirect light until it is established.
