Overview
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca (Gerarde ex Baker) Boivin (pro nm.) is a hybrid mint plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This perennial herbaceous plant is a cross between Mentha spicata and Mentha suaveolens. It is commonly known as heart-leaved mint and has been used for various medicinal purposes for centuries.
Origin
The heart-leaved mint is native to Europe and Asia, although it is currently cultivated worldwide. It is popular in North America and is widely grown in Canada and the United States, specifically in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest region of the US.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as heart-leaved mint, menthol mint, spear mint, and lamb mint.
Appearance
The heart-leaved mint plant typically grows to a height of one to two feet and has a spread of one to two feet as well. Its leaves are distinctive for their heart-shaped appearance and are about one inch long. The plant's flowers bloom in the summer and are typically pink-purple in color. It is a sturdy plant that can thrive in different climates and is commonly found in damp and shady places such as along riverbanks and in moist woodlands.
Uses
The heart-leaved mint plant has been used in traditional folk medicine for many purposes. The leaves of the plant contain essential oils that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to soothe digestive problems and ease respiratory conditions such as coughs and colds. The plant's leaves can also be dried and brewed into tea, which is said to have a calming effect on the stomach and aids in digestion. Additionally, the plant is commonly used as a flavoring in food and beverages, and the oil extracted from the leaves is used in various commercial products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
Light Requirements
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca typically prefers full to partial sunlight exposure. The plant can grow well in areas with approximately six hours of daily sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place it in a location where it can receive direct sunlight in the morning and filtered in the afternoon.
Temperature Requirements
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca grows well in temperate climates, with an optimal temperature range of 18 to 27°C (64-81°F). The plant can survive occasional frost but cannot tolerate very cold weather. It is recommended to bring the plant indoors during winter months if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F) to protect them from cold damage
Soil Requirements
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca prefers well-drained soils, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow well in moderately fertile soil but requires enough moisture to sustain healthy growth during the growing season. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure to the soil can enhance its fertility and improve moisture retention.
Cultivation Methods for Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca, also known as heart mint, prefers a fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of 6.5 to 7.0. Choose a sunny or partially shaded location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. When planting, space the seedlings or cuttings about 18 to 24 inches apart to promote proper growth and airflow.
Watering Needs for Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca
Heart mint requires regular, consistent watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. To avoid fungal growth, avoid using overhead watering methods and instead water the soil directly at the base of the plant.
Fertilization for Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca
Heart mint responds well to regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, organic fertilizer every four to six weeks to provide the plant with necessary nutrients. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive growth and flavorless leaves.
Pruning for Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca
To promote healthy growth and prevent legginess, prune heart mint regularly. Cut back the plant by half every six weeks during the growing season to encourage bushiness. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
This method involves growing the plant from seed. The seeds need to be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. However, Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca doesn't come true from seed, so you cannot count on the plant's characteristics to remain the same. It is not commonly propagated this way.
Division
Division is one of the easiest ways to propagate Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca. Simply dig up the well-established plant, and divide the clump into smaller portions. Each portion should have some roots and a few plant shoots, and can then be planted individually in a new location. This method should be done in the early spring, so that the new divisions have enough time to establish before winter.
Cuttings
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer from new growth, about 4-6 inches long, and with a few sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix or water. The cutting should be kept moist and protected from direct sunlight until roots develop.
Note that Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca has a tendency to root quickly and easily, making it a successful plant for propagation with cuttings.
Disease Management
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca is prone to various diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and verticillium wilt. Here are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems. To manage it, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overcrowding. Remove infected plant parts and use fungicides if necessary.
- Rust: Rust appears as reddish-brown spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing infected plant parts, maintaining good air circulation, and using fungicides if necessary.
- Verticillium wilt: This disease causes the leaves to yellow and wilt. To manage it, remove infected plant parts and avoid planting in the same location where infected plants were previously grown.
Pest Management
Mentha ×gentilis L. var. cardiaca is also susceptible to pest attacks. Common pests that might affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Here are some ways to manage these pests:
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot until after they've caused damage. To manage them, wash the plant with water and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Aphids: Aphids appear as small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the leaves and stems. To manage them, wash the plant with water and use neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators that can help control aphids.
- Thrips: Thrips are slim, black or brown insects that suck the sap out of plants. To manage them, use sticky traps or release predatory mites. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
