Lime Mint Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Lime'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Lime Mint showcases a vibrant and refreshing appearance that is both appealing and fragrant. It has a lush and spreading habit, featuring bright green leaves that have a slightly wrinkled texture. The leaves are also characterized by their distinct lime-like aroma, which is released upon touching or bruising them, inviting a sensory experience in the garden. Throughout the warmer months, the Lime Mint may produce delicate flowers that add to its ornamental value. These flowers are typically small and can range in color, often appearing in shades that complement the green foliage. The plant overall presents a neat yet robust look that is commonly sought after for its aromatic qualities and its use in culinary applications. Lime Mint is often used as a garnish or to infuse flavor into dishes and beverages, adding a citrusy twist to refreshments and recipes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Lime Mint, Lemon Bergamot Mint
Common names
Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Lime'.
ToxicityTo humans
Generally, Lime Mint is not toxic to humans; in fact, it is often used in culinary applications for its flavor. However, in rare cases or when consumed in extremely large quantities, some individuals may experience adverse reactions due to particular sensitivities or allergies. Symptoms of such reactions could include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, as well as potential skin irritation if there is a pre-existing allergy to mint plants. It's always best to consume Lime Mint, and herbs in general, in moderation and to be aware of individual sensitivities or allergies.
To pets
Lime Mint is not considered toxic to pets. It is a variant of mint and is generally safe for dogs and cats if they ingest small amounts. Nonetheless, in large quantities, it could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some pets. As with any non-typical food item, it's always advisable to introduce new plants into a pet's diet gradually and to monitor for any signs of digestive distress or adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aromatic: The plant has a strong, pleasant lime-mint fragrance that can be used to freshen up the ambient air in living spaces.
- Culinary uses: Lime mint leaves can be used to add flavor to dishes, drinks, and teas, enhancing both taste and presentation.
- Gardening: It is commonly used in gardens for its attractive foliage and flowers as well as for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Landscape design: Lime mint can serve as a visually appealing ground cover or border plant due to its lush green leaves and compact growth habit.
- Easy to grow: The plant is generally easy to cultivate and maintain, making it a good choice for beginner gardeners.
- Natural pest repellent: The strong scent of Lime mint is known to repel certain insects, making it a useful companion plant.
- Erosion control: When planted in groups, Lime mint can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in the garden.
Medical Properties- Anti-nausea – Mentha x piperita has been known to help alleviate symptoms of nausea and motion sickness.
- Digestive aid – The menthol in peppermint may help soothe indigestion and promote healthy digestion.
- Headache relief – Topical application of peppermint oil has been used to reduce tension headaches.
- Antimicrobial – Components of peppermint oil, including menthol, have antimicrobial properties against bacteria and fungi.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Insect Repellent: Lime mint can be planted around outdoor living spaces to help repel mosquitoes and other insects without the use of chemicals.
- Aromatic Bathing: Fresh leaves can be added to bath water for a fragrant and refreshing bathing experience.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried lime mint leaves can be included in potpourri mixes to impart a citrusy aroma to your home.
- Flavoring Agent: The leaves of lime mint can be used to infuse syrups or sugars for a unique twist in cocktails and culinary dishes.
- Decorative Garnish: Its vibrant green leaves can serve as an attractive and edible garnish for desserts and drinks.
- Handmade Soaps and Candles: The essential oil or dried leaves of lime mint can be used for adding fragrance to homemade soaps and candles.
- Closet Freshener: Dried lime mint can be placed in closets or drawers to impart a fresh, citrusy scent to clothing and linens.
- Freshen Carpets: Dried, crushed leaves can be sprinkled over carpets before vacuuming to help deodorize them.
- Art and Craft Material: The stems and leaves can be pressed and used in botanical art or craft projects for their delicate aroma and attractive form.
- Culinary Decoration: Lime mint can be frozen in ice cubes to add both flavor and visual appeal to summer drinks.
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- Refreshment: As a variety of mint, Lime Mint is often associated with a sense of refreshment and invigoration, characteristic of its cool, crisp flavor and scent.
- Healing: Mint plants, including Lime Mint, symbolize healing and have been used in traditional medicine for their soothing and medicinal properties.
- Hospitality: The plant's inviting aroma denotes hospitality, as mint has been historically used to welcome guests.
- Purification: Lime Mint represents purification, reflecting its use in cleaning products and its ability to cleanse the palate.
- Love: In some cultures, mint is symbolic of love and warmth in relationships, possibly due to its comforting scent and flavor.
WaterLime Mint requires consistent moisture and should be watered once the soil surface starts to dry out. It's important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely but also to ensure it's not waterlogged. A general guide is to water Lime Mint once every 1 to 3 days, depending on the environmental conditions, providing between 16 to 24 ounces of water each time. During hot, dry periods, the frequency may need to increase, and during cooler or rainy periods, it should decrease.
LightLime Mint thrives in full to partial sunlight with at least four hours of direct sun each day. The best spot for it is in an area where it can receive morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates to prevent the leaves from scorching.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature for Lime Mint is between 65°F and 70°F. It can generally tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 90°F. However, to ensure healthy growth, try to maintain the temperature near the ideal range as much as possible.
PruningPrune Lime Mint to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Clip off the tips of the stems every few weeks during the growing season. The best time to do a more thorough pruning is in the early spring or after the plant has flowered, which can be once or twice a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Lime Mint is one that is rich, loamy, and has good drainage. A peat-based mix with perlite and compost works well. The ideal soil pH for Lime Mint is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingLime Mint should be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and prevent overcrowding of roots. Spring is the ideal time for repotting this herb.
Humidity & MistingLime Mint prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim for a humidity level of 40-50% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Lime Mint in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, water often, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
Lime Mint is suitable for USDA zones 4-11.
Life cycleThe 'Lime' Mint, a variety of Mentha × piperita, begins its life when a seed germinates in moist, well-draining soil in early spring. Once the seedling emerges, the plant enters a vegetative stage, characterized by rapid leaf growth and development of its characteristic square stems. Throughout the growing season, 'Lime' Mint will produce oblong or lance-shaped leaves and may eventually send up spikes of small purple flowers by mid to late summer if not regularly harvested or pruned. After pollination, which is often facilitated by bees and other insects, the plant may set seeds, although many mint varieties are sterile and instead propagate vegetatively via runners or rhizomes. As an herbaceous perennial, 'Lime' Mint will die back to the ground during the fall with the onset of colder temperatures and will enter dormancy over winter, storing energy in its underground parts. In spring, the plant regenerates from these perennial structures to start a new annual cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Lime Mint, Mentha × piperita f. citrata 'Lime', is through stem cuttings. This is commonly done in the spring or early summer, when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate, a gardener would take a 4 to 6-inch cutting (about 10 to 15 cm) from the tip of a healthy stem, making sure to include several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is inserted into a moist potting mix or water until roots develop. After a few weeks, when the roots are an inch or two (2.5 to 5 cm) long, the new plant can be potted up into soil and acclimatized to outdoor conditions if necessary.
