Q mentha-arvensis

Q mentha-arvensis

• 1.
  Wild (Field) Mint– Mentha arvensis (MEN-thuh ar-VEN-sis) Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family) Native to: Much of Northern Hemisphere. Locally in Santa Monica and San Bernardino Mtns. & mountains of San Diego Co.; in moist places like lakeshores & stream banks, seeps. Growth characteristics: herbaceous perennial mature height: 1-2 ft. mature width: spreading Low-growing herbaceous perennial that spreads via rhizomes to create sizeable colonies (typical mint). Leaves bright green, crinkled with typical strong minty scent. Stems square, may be sprawling or more upright. Foliage dies back in fall. Blooms/fruits: Blooms in summer/fall, anytime from July through Oct. Flowers are tiny white to lavender or pink, bell-shaped in dense clusters in the leaf axils. Flowers are small and may be almost hidden by the leaves. Uses in the garden: Most often used in the kitchen or herbal garden, as this plant is usually grown for tea and as a flavoring agent in cooking. The flavor is a typical, strong mint. Scent repels insect pests, mice/other rodents. Consider growing this plant in containers, as it will spread. Useful for damp areas in the garden, along creek beds or in the wettest part of a rain garden or swale. Sensible substitute for: Non-native mints. Attracts: Good bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food. Bees & butterflies love nectar. Requirements: Element Requirement Sun Full sun to dappled shade. Flavor more intense with full sun. Soil Any local. Likes slightly acid pH, but takes 6.0 to 8.0. Water Regular water – Zone 2-3 to 3. Tolerates seasonal flooding. Fertilizer Not needed but not harmful. Can amend soil with compost. Other Do not use pesticides if using as an edible plant Management: Cut back dead stems to 1-2 inches in fall. Remove rambunctious growth as needed. Consider growing in a large container. Will hybridize with other mints. Propagation: from seed: cold, moist treat 2-3 mo. by stem cuttings: easy in spring, fall Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 2, 6, 13 1/13/15 © Project SOUND