Chocolate Mint Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Chocolate'
ABOUT
Chocolate mint is a delightful and aromatic garden plant with a distinctive chocolatey-mint aroma, reminiscent of chocolate mixed with peppermint. The leaves of chocolate mint are typically a rich, deep green with a slight purplish hue or darker veins that can sometimes be observed. Often, the leaves have a slightly crinkled texture, and when rubbed or crushed, they release a potent fragrance that combines the freshness of mint with undercurrents of chocolate. The plant bears small, tubular flowers that are usually a delicate lilac or pale pink in color, adding a touch of gentle visual interest amidst the lush foliage. These flowers tend to cluster in spiky inflorescences that emerge from the leaf axils or the tips of the stems during blooming season. The stems of chocolate mint are square-shaped, which is a characteristic feature of many mint family plants, and they are often tinged with the same purplish coloration found in the leaves. Overall, the appearance of chocolate mint is that of a clumping herb that can spread vigorously through its underground runners if given the opportunity. The texture, color, and aroma of the plant make it a favorite for sensory gardens, culinary uses, and as an attractive, easy-to-grow plant for borders and containers where its spreading habit can be confined and appreciated for its beauty and fragrance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Peppermint, Chocolate Mint Peppermint.
Common names
Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Chocolate'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chocolate Mint typically is not toxic to humans. It is a variety of herb commonly used in culinary applications. In general, it is safe to consume in amounts typically found in food. However, excessive consumption of any plant, including Chocolate Mint, can potentially lead to gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Chocolate Mint is not considered toxic to pets. However, as with any plant, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some animals. It is always best to exercise caution and prevent pets from ingesting large amounts of any non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Mint 'Chocolate' adds a unique flavor to desserts, teas, and other beverages with its chocolate and mint combination.
- Aromatic Qualities: This variety of mint emits a pleasant chocolate-mint aroma that can enhance the sensory experience in gardens and when used in potpourris.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its lush green foliage, it contributes to the visual appeal of gardens and can be used in landscape design for borders or as a ground cover.
- Natural Pest Repellent: The strong scent of Mint 'Chocolate' can naturally deter some pests from the garden, helping to protect other plants without the use of chemicals.
- Ease of Growth: This mint is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: Flowers of the Mint 'Chocolate' can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for the garden environment.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: May help in relieving pain.
- Antispasmodic: Can help to ease muscle spasms and cramps.
- Carminative: Could be effective in relieving flatulence and bloating.
- Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation and associated conditions.
- Antimicrobial: Has the potential to prevent or inhibit the growth of microbes.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that might combat oxidative stress.
- Gastrointestinal Aid: Could be used to soothe digestive issues.
- Menthol Content: Provides a cooling sensation which can help in providing relief from sore throats.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural rodent repellent, Chocolate mint's strong scent may help deter mice and rats when planted around the foundation of a home.
- Chocolate mint leaves can be infused in vinegar for a unique culinary condiment, adding a nuanced flavor to salads and marinades.
- Using the leaves in potpourri, the mint adds a delicate chocolate aroma to the mixture, enhancing the scent of a room or wardrobe.
- When dried and placed in sachets, the leaves can be an aromatic addition to linens and clothing drawers.
- As natural mulch, the crushed stems and leaves can be spread over garden beds to help retain soil moisture and discourage weeds.
- Planting Chocolate mint alongside tomatoes in the garden might help to enhance their growth and flavor due to companion planting benefits.
- Pressed Chocolate mint leaves can be used for decorative arts and crafting, providing a minty chocolate scent to homemade paper or bookmarks.
- Adding the plant to a compost pile can help activate the composting process while infusing it with a pleasant aroma.
- The leaves can serve as a natural flavoring in homemade chocolates or sweets, providing an interesting twist to traditional recipes.
- As a bath infusion, a mesh bag filled with Chocolate mint leaves can create an aromatic and relaxing bath experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chocolate Mint plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chocolate Mint plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Mint has been associated with healing properties in many cultures due to its refreshing scent and medicinal qualities. The menthol in mint is known for soothing ailments like indigestion and respiratory issues.
- Protection: In folklore, mint is believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. Planting mint around the home was thought to offer protection.
- Hospitality: Mint is a sign of hospitality; in ancient Greece, it was used to clean the table before guests arrived, and mint tea is often offered to guests in many countries as a welcoming gesture.
- Refreshment: The invigorating scent of mint symbolizes refreshment and renewal. In this way, it is often associated with the idea of starting anew or rejuvenating one's spirit.
- Purification: Because of its clean and crisp scent, mint is frequently associated with purification of the mind and soul, symbolizing a clean slate or fresh start.
- Love and Virtue: In some cultures, mint is symbolic of love and virtue, and it is included in various forms in wedding ceremonies or given as a token of commitment.
WaterChocolate Mint should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. It's best to use a watering can or hose to water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage which can promote fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, a Chocolate Mint plant may require more frequent watering. It's important to provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of at least 6-8 inches. An approximate guideline is to provide the Chocolate Mint with about 1-2 gallons of water per week, ensuring that the plant receives consistent moisture but is not waterlogged.
LightChocolate Mint thrives in full to partial sunlight, so the ideal location would provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, in regions with very hot summers, partial shade during the afternoon can help protect the plant from scorching. It is adaptable and can tolerate some shade, but the flavor and growth might not be as robust as when grown in full sun.
TemperatureChocolate Mint prefers a temperature range between 55°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can tolerate temporary dips down to around 40°F but frost can severely damage the plant. It is generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, and during the hot months, it is important to protect it from extreme heat above 90°F by providing some shade or extra water.
PruningPruning Chocolate Mint encourages bushier growth and prevents it from becoming leggy. Trim back the tips of the stems every few weeks during the growing season to keep the plant compact and to stimulate new growth. The best time to prune is just before the plant flowers, which helps prolong harvesting and maintains vigor. Pruning also minimizes the risk of the plant becoming invasive, as it can spread rapidly if allowed to set seeds.
CleaningNot needed
SoilChocolate Mint thrives in a well-draining, loamy soil with a slight acidity to neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.0. A good mixture would be one part garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage.
RepottingChocolate Mint should typically be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and prevent it from becoming root-bound. Annual repotting is beneficial for optimizing growth and health.
Humidity & MistingChocolate Mint plants prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. Providing humidity between 40-70% is ideal for promoting healthy growth without inviting mold or mildew.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, near a window, water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChocolate Mint (Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Chocolate') starts its life cycle from a seed or more commonly from a cutting or division due to its hybrid nature. Once planted, the cutting quickly establishes roots and sprouts new growth, entering its vegetative stage, during which leaves expand and stems elongate. The plant will continue to grow and spread primarily through its underground rhizomes, rapidly colonizing the garden space. After a period of growth, usually in late spring to early summer, Chocolate Mint produces small, violet-to-lilac flowers on terminal spikes, entering its reproductive stage, which attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Once pollinated, the flowers can produce tiny nutlets containing seeds, though plants are often sterile or do not come true from seed. After flowering, in regions with cold winters, Chocolate Mint will die back to the ground, becoming dormant in winter, only to regrow again in the spring, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chocolate mint, known botanically as Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Chocolate', can be propagated most effectively through stem cuttings. This method is preferred as it's quick and nearly foolproof. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches long and remove the leaves from the lower half. The stem can then be inserted into a pot filled with moist potting mix or a water container to root. In two to three weeks, when roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location. To ensure humidity and warmth, you can cover the pot with a clear plastic bag until the new roots establish.
