Banana Mint Mentha arvensis 'Banana'
ABOUT
The plant known as Banana Mint is characterized by its unique and aromatic foliage which bears a resemblance to standard mint varieties but with a twist of banana scent. The leaves of Banana Mint are typically green with a slightly wrinkly surface and a rounded shape, possessing serrated edges akin to other members of the mint family. Stems are square in shape which is common among mint plants. When the plant blossoms, it showcases small, lilac or pinkish flowers that grow in clusters. The overall appearance of Banana Mint is lush and it spreads through runners, creating a groundcover effect where it grows. This flavorful plant is not only appealing to the eyes but also to the palate with its distinctive banana-minty taste, making it a favorite for culinary use. Its aromatic qualities contribute to its popularity in fragrant gardens and amongst those who enjoy incorporating unique flavors into their cooking.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Banana Mint.
Common names
Mentha canadensis, Mentha austriaca.
ToxicityTo humans
Mentha arvensis, commonly known as Wild Mint or Field Mint, typically is not toxic to humans when ingested in normal food quantities. There are no known toxic effects from eating the 'Banana' variety of this plant for most individuals. However, consuming this plant in large quantities or in essential oil form may potentially lead to side effects due to menthol and other compounds present. These side effects can include heartburn, headaches, mouth sores, and skin irritation if there's direct contact with concentrated oil. Very high doses might affect breathing and cause irritation of the mucus membranes. Mentha arvensis should also be used cautiously in people who have gallstones, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or hiatal hernia.
To pets
Mentha arvensis, commonly known as Wild Mint or Field Mint, is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no specific reports of toxicity in pets from ingesting the 'Banana' variety of this plant. However, it's still possible for pets to have mild stomach upset if they consume large amounts of this plant, just as with any unusual food or plant material. The essential oils present in the plant could potentially cause more serious symptoms if ingested in large concentrations, but this would be uncommon in typical household circumstances. Pet owners should still practice caution and not allow their pets to have unlimited access to the plant or its essential oils.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Mentha arvensis 'Banana', commonly known as Banana Mint, is used for its unique banana-like flavor in desserts, teas, and various dishes.
- Aromatic: The plant has a pleasant, sweet fragrance that is ideal for potpourris and adding natural perfume to a garden or room.
- Attracts Pollinators: Banana Mint attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Easy to Grow: It is a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it accessible to many gardeners.
- Ground Cover: Due to its spreading habit, it can serve as an attractive ground cover, filling in garden spaces and suppressing weeds.
- Edible Landscaping: Banana Mint contributes both beauty and edibility to landscaping, providing aesthetic and practical value.
- Companion Planting: It can be used in companion planting to deter pests from nearby crops.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Mentha arvensis, also known as field mint or wild mint, has been traditionally used to help relieve pain.
- Antiseptic: The plant possesses antiseptic properties, which may help in preventing infections.
- Carminative: It is known to help in relieving digestive issues such as gas and bloating.
- Expectorant: Field mint could be used to help with respiratory conditions by acting as an expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the airways.
- Antispasmodic: It may provide relief from muscle spasms or cramps.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may have anti-inflammatory effects which might help in reducing inflammation.
- Anti-emetic: Mentha arvensis might be useful in alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
- Diaphoretic: Traditionally, it has been used to promote sweating, helping to reduce fever.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Flavoring Agent in Confectionery: The 'Banana' mint is used to add a unique banana-like flavor to candies and gum, providing an interesting twist to traditional mint flavors.
- Aromatic Bath Additive: Leaves of 'Banana' mint can be added to bathwater for a refreshing and soothing aroma, promoting a relaxing bath experience.
- Natural Insect Repellant: The strong scent of 'Banana' mint is used in gardens to repel pests such as mosquitos and flies.
- Decorative Plants: With its vibrant green leaves, 'Banana' mint can be used as ornamental plants in gardens or as part of floral arrangements.
- Culinary Garnishing: 'Banana' mint leaves can serve as a unique and aromatic garnish for desserts and cocktails, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
- Infused Oils and Vinegars: The leaves of 'Banana' mint are infused in oils and vinegars to impart a mild banana and mint flavor to salad dressings and marinades.
- Natural Fabric Freshener: The dried leaves can be placed in sachets to freshen up clothing and linen closets with their pleasant scent.
- Crafting Potpourri: Dried 'Banana' mint leaves can be included in potpourri mixes to add a sweet and minty aroma to the home.
- Homemade Beauty Products: 'Banana' mint can be incorporated into homemade soaps, lotions, and shampoos for its unique scent and gentle properties.
- Photography Prop: Fresh or dried 'Banana' mint plants can be used as an aesthetic prop in food photography, adding a natural touch to the visuals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Banana Mint plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Banana Mint plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Refreshment: As a member of the mint family, Mentha arvensis, commonly known as Field Mint or Wild Mint, symbolizes refreshment and coolness, reflecting its cooling taste and sensation.
- Healing: Field Mint is often associated with healing properties due to its use in traditional medicine to alleviate various ailments, representing rejuvenation and recovery.
- Hospitality: The invigorating scent and flavor of Field Mint have made it a symbol of hospitality, as it was historically used to clean and scent the air, as well as to welcome guests with a soothing drink.
- Vitality: The vigorous growth habit of Field Mint signifies vitality and abundance, reflecting the plant's hardy nature and prolific spread.
WaterField mint, commonly known as 'Banana' mint, requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be about once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Use enough water to moisten the soil depth, which could roughly amount to around 1-2 gallons per week for a mature plant in a standard garden setting. Be careful with watering; overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soils. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant's growth slows down.
LightField mint thrives in full to partial sunlight, making it in need of around 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for 'Banana' mint would be where it receives morning sunlight, which is less intense, and some afternoon shade to protect it from the scorching heat, particularly in very hot climates. However, it can also adapt to partial shade, where sunlight is dappled throughout the day.
Temperature'Banana' mint prefers a temperature range of 55-70°F for optimal growth, though the plant is quite hardy and can tolerate temperatures from just above freezing to about 90°F. Be mindful to protect it from extreme cold or frost, which can damage the foliage. Ideal growing conditions feature warm days and cooler nights within the defined temperature range.
PruningPruning 'Banana' mint is crucial to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy. Prune or pinch off the tips of the stems regularly, especially during the growing season, to stimulate new growth. It's best to trim back the plant in the early spring to make way for fresh growth and again in mid-summer to rejuvenate the plant if it starts to look tired. Pruning can be done as frequently as needed to maintain the desired shape and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBanana mint thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. An ideal mix would be two parts garden soil, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or well-rotted manure.
RepottingBanana mint should be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and prevent overcrowding of roots.
Humidity & MistingBanana mint prefers a moderate humidity level and can tolerate the range commonly found in outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and ensure the pot has good drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, water regularly, and ensure soil drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleMentha arvensis 'Banana', commonly known as Banana Mint, starts its life as a seed which germinates in moist, rich soil in early to mid-spring. After germination, seedlings emerge and grow rapidly, developing into a dense mat of ground cover thanks to its stoloniferous growth habit. The plant matures and reaches its full vegetative state by late spring to early summer, with distinctive banana-scented leaves that are used for culinary purposes. Flowering occurs in mid to late summer, where small, lilac-colored flowers attract pollinators. Following pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, either falling near the parent plant or being carried away by wind, water, or animals. Banana Mint can survive mild winters as a perennial, regrowing from the root system the following spring, or it completes its cycle as an annual in colder climates.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the plant known commonly as 'Banana Mint' typically involves stem cuttings. This method is best carried out in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4- to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top. The cutting can then be placed in water until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks, or it can be planted directly into soil mixed with rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Keeping the soil evenly moist and providing indirect light encourages successful rooting and growth of new Banana Mint plants.
