Eau de Cologne Mint Mentha × piperita f. citrata
ABOUT
The plant in question is commonly known as Lemon Mint or Orange Mint, a variant within the mint family. It is recognizable by its distinctive green foliage, which carries a notable citrus scent, hinting at its name. The leaves are characteristically similar to other mints, being oval-shaped with serrated edges, providing a textured appearance. When the plant is in bloom, it produces small flowers that are often purple to lilac in color, creating a visually appealing contrast against the greenery. These flowers typically gather in clusters, known as inflorescences, which enhance the plant's ornamental appeal. Lemon Mint exhibits the same square-shaped stems that are common to members of the mint family. The plant's overall appearance is lush, with a tendency to spread, which makes it popular in gardens as both a culinary herb and a decorative element. The leaves release a pleasant, citrusy aroma when crushed or brushed against, adding to the sensory experience of the plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Eau De Cologne Mint, Orange Mint, Lemon Mint, Bergamot Mint
Common names
Mentha × piperita f. citrata.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Mentha × piperita f. citrata is Eau de Cologne mint or sometimes Lemon mint. Eau de Cologne mint is not typically known to be toxic to humans, and it is often used in cooking, teas, and as a flavoring agent. However, it's important to note that consuming this plant in large quantities may lead to adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in some individuals. Typical symptoms from plant allergies may include itching, swelling, and redness of the skin, or more severe reactions if the person has a significant allergy. Care should always be taken when trying new herbs, especially in large quantities or if a person has a history of allergies.
To pets
Eau de Cologne mint is typically not toxic to pets. It is a variety of mint that is often used in culinary applications for humans and does not pose a significant risk to dogs or cats if ingested in small amounts. However, as with any non-food plant, consuming large quantities may potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet has a particular sensitivity or allergy to mint plants, then more serious allergic reactions could occur, and veterinary attention may be necessary. It's important for pet owners to monitor their pets and ensure that they are not consuming large amounts of any plants, including Eau de Cologne mint.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-3 feet [30-90 cm]
Spread
1-3 feet [30-90 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary uses: The peppermint plant is commonly used to flavor foods and beverages, including teas, desserts, and sauces.
- Aromatic properties: The leaves of the peppermint plant emit a strong, pleasant scent that can be used in perfumes and also to add fragrance to lotions, soaps, and candles.
- Insect repellency: Peppermint's strong smell is known to repel certain insects, making it a natural pest deterrent in gardens and homes.
- Ornamental value: With its striking green leaves and sometimes purple flowers, peppermint can be grown for aesthetic purposes in gardens and landscaping.
- Cooking extracts: Peppermint extract, derived from the leaves of the plant, is widely used as a flavoring agent in baking and cooking.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: May help in reducing pain when applied topically.
- Antimicrobial: Possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Antispasmodic: Can help in relieving spasms in the digestive system.
- Carminative: Aids in relieving flatulence.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that can help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Antitumoral: Some studies suggest it may have properties that help in combating tumor growth.
- Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation when used externally or internally.
- Decongestant: Can help in alleviating congestion in the respiratory tract.
- Stimulant: May have a stimulatory effect on the circulatory system.
- Anxiolytic: Has potential to reduce anxiety when used in aromatherapy.
- Memory-enhancing: Some research indicates it could improve memory and cognitive functions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mentha × piperita f. citrata, commonly known as lemon mint, can be used as a natural pest repellent; the strong citrus scent is unappealing to many insects and can be used to protect other plants.
- The plant can be woven into wreaths or bouquets for its pleasant aroma and aesthetic appeal in floral arrangements or home decor.
- Lemon mint leaves can be used in potpourri mixes to impart a refreshing and vibrant scent to rooms.
- The dried leaves can be used to make a scented sachet, which is then placed in drawers or closets for a fresh smell and to deter moths.
- The essential oil from lemon mint can be used in homemade cleaning products for a natural fragrance and potential antibacterial properties.
- Lemon mint can be used as a natural dye, where the leaves create subtle green hues when used in the fabric dyeing process.
- The plant can be included in compost piles as a natural activator due to its high nitrogen content, helping to speed up the composting process.
- When planted in gardens, lemon mint can attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Fresh or dried leaves of lemon mint can be added to bathwater for a refreshing and aromatic bath experience.
- The strong fragrance can be utilized in homemade perfumes or body sprays, providing a natural and invigorating lemon scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Refreshing: Mentha × piperita f. citrata, commonly known as Lemon Mint, symbolizes refreshment, due to its cool and zesty flavor that is often associated with a sense of rejuvenation and new energy.
- Healing: Lemon Mint is also a symbol of healing properties as many mint varieties have been used in traditional medicine for their soothing digestive benefits and ability to alleviate minor aches and pains.
- Cleansing: The strong aroma of Lemon Mint suggests cleanliness and purity, and therefore the plant symbolizes the act of cleansing, be it physical, spiritual, or emotional.
- Welcoming: The pleasant scent of Lemon Mint is often used in homes and public spaces to create a welcoming atmosphere, thereby symbolizing hospitality and warmth.
- Releasing Negativity: Lemon Mint has been considered a tool for dispelling negative thoughts and vibes, promoting a more positive and clear mental state.
- Vitality: The invigorating nature of the plant suggests vigilance and life energy, hence it symbolizes vitality and dynamism.
WaterThe Chocolate Mint plant should be kept consistently moist, watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. It's best to water deeply, allowing water to seep down to the roots rather than just wetting the surface. In warm climates, this might mean watering a couple of times a week, but in cooler climates or during rainy periods, less frequent watering may be required. It is difficult to prescribe an exact amount due to varying conditions, but a rule of thumb might be to use about one or two gallons of water per week for an outdoor plant depending on weather conditions and soil drainage.
LightChocolate Mint thrives in full to partial sunlight, meaning ideally it should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours each day. However, it can tolerate and will also grow well in partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where some relief from the intense afternoon sun helps prevent scorching. A spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade would be ideal for growing Chocolate Mint.
TemperatureChocolate Mint plants prefer warmer temperatures ranging from 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing condition for Chocolate Mint is within the moderate temperature range where nights are cool, and days are warm, but it should be protected from frost which can severely damage the plant.
PruningPruning Chocolate Mint is done to encourage bushier growth and to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It is best pruned in the early spring or after flowering by snipping off the tips of the stems. Regularly harvesting the leaves for use will naturally keep the plant pruned, otherwise, you can cut back the plant by one-third every few months during the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Lemon Mint (the most common name for Mentha × piperita f. citrata) is a well-draining, rich, moist loam with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of two parts peat, one part perlite, and one part compost works well.
RepottingLemon Mint should be repotted every two to three years or when it becomes root-bound. Annual division of the plant can also be an effective way to manage its growth and refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingLemon Mint thrives in environments with moderate to high humidity levels, but it is quite adaptable and does not require specific humidity conditions for growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Lemon Mint in a sunny spot and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Lemon Mint in partial shade and keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleMentha × piperita f. citrata, also known as Eau de Cologne mint or Lemon mint, begins its life cycle as a seed or more commonly through vegetative propagation using cuttings or division. After planting, the seed or cutting sprouts, developing roots and shoots that grow into a small herbaceous perennial. The plant matures, producing square stems and fragrant leaves, a characteristic feature of the mint family. As it enters the flowering stage, small purple or light pink flowers appear in whorled spikes, attracting pollinators like bees. Following pollination, the plant may produce seeds, but propagation typically relies more on vegetative methods due to hybrid sterility. The plant continues to grow and can spread vigorously, with each growing season followed by a period of dormancy in colder climates, where it dies back to the ground and resprouts in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method for propagating peppermint (Mentha × piperita f. citrata) is through stem cuttings. The ideal time for propagating by cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches long, stripping off the lower leaves to reveal a clean length of stem. This exposed part is then placed either directly into a moist potting mix or into a glass of water until roots form. If using soil, keep it consistently moist until roots are established, usually within a couple of weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to their final growing location whether in a pot or the garden. This method is favored due to its simplicity and high success rate, quickly creating new plants identical to the parent plants.
