Description
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. is a hybrid species of mint which belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is a strongly aromatic perennial plant that typically grows up to 30-90 cm in height. The leaves of the plant are highly fragrant, having a strong citrus-like scent, hence the name citrata. The plant produces small, pinkish-violet flowers which bloom in mid-summer.
Origin
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. is thought to have originated in the Mediterranean region. It is a hybrid that resulted from the crossing of Mentha aquatica and Mentha spicata. The plant has since been cultivated in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. is commonly known as bergamot mint, orange mint, eau de cologne mint, lime mint, and lemon mint. These names are attributed to the plant's strong citrus-like aroma.
Uses
The leaves and essential oil of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. have a wide range of medicinal and culinary uses. The plant is commonly used to prepare teas, syrups, and flavoring agents for candies and toothpaste. The essential oil of the plant is used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, depression and anxiety. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat digestive disorders such as nausea, flatulence, and dyspepsia. The leaves of the plant can be added to salads, sauces, and soups to add a citrus-like flavor.
The plant is also popularly cultivated as a garden plant and is used for landscaping purposes due to its attractive appearance and strong aroma. It is easy to cultivate and requires average soil and watering conditions.
Light Requirements
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. thrives in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. The plant develops best with exposure to at least six hours of sunlight. Yet, too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and stunt the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. prefers to grow under temperate weather conditions, ranging between 55°F –70°F (12°C-21°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures and briefly endure higher temperatures, but prolonged extreme conditions are not suitable for its growth, and can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields.
Soil Requirements
The Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. can grow in a variety of soils, however, it develops optimally in well-draining and fertile soils that are rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The mint plant requires adequate moisture levels in the soil, but soil saturation is not ideal as it can stimulate rotting in the roots. The addition of organic matter can help improve soil quality.
Cultivation methods for Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq.
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq., commonly known as Citrus mint, is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is a perennial plant that prefers a warm climate and well-drained soil. To cultivate Citrus mint:
- Choose a spot with full to partial sun exposure
- Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged
- Space the plants 18 to 24 inches apart
Watering needs of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq.
Citrus mint requires consistent watering throughout the growing season. Follow these watering tips:
- Water the plants in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid water loss through evaporation
- Water the plants deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root development
- Check the soil moisture frequently, and water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry to the touch
- Make sure the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot
Fertilization of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq.
To maintain the optimal growth of Citrus mint, follow these fertilization guidelines:
- Fertilize the plant every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions, usually one tablespoon per gallon of water, and pour it over the soil
- Avoid getting the fertilizer on the leaves, as it can burn them and harm the plant
Pruning of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq.
Pruning is an essential part of Citrus mint care. Follow these pruning guidelines to keep your plant healthy:
- Pinch off the tips of the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
- Prune the plant after the blooming season in late summer or early fall to remove any dead leaves and stems
- Cut back the plant to within 1 to 2 inches of the ground to promote new growth in the spring
- Do not prune the plant too severely, as this can shock it and stunt its growth
Propagation of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq.
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. is propagated asexually because it is a sterile hybrid. The following are the methods of propagation commonly used for this plant:
Division:
Dividing Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. is an easy and practical way to propagate it. This method involves separating the plant's roots and planting them in separate containers or in the ground. The ideal time for division is in the early spring when the plant begins to grow new shoots. It is important to ensure that each division has a healthy root system and several leaves for photosynthesis and growth.
Cutting:
The propagation of Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. can also be done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with several nodes and make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle, just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves to leave only a few at the top, and apply rooting hormone to the cut end. Insert the cutting into a rooting medium, water it, and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain moisture. Keep the cutting in a warm place and check it regularly for root formation. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be potted or planted in the ground.
Layering:
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. can also be propagated through layering. This involves bending a healthy stem until it touches the ground and keeping it in place with a wire or stake. Cover the part of the stem in contact with the soil with a layer of moist soil, leaving the tips exposed. Roots will grow from the covered stem within a few weeks. Once established, the layered stem can be separated from the parent plant and potted or planted in the ground.
Disease management
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. can be affected by several diseases, including:
- Verticillium wilt: can cause yellowing, wilting and browning of the leaves. It is caused by a soil-borne fungus. To manage it, plant resistant cultivars and avoid planting in soil where infected plants have been grown.
- Phytophthora root rot: can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as root decay. It is caused by a water-borne fungus. To manage it, improve drainage and avoid over-watering.
- Rust: can cause yellow or orange spots on the leaves. It is caused by a fungal infection. To manage it, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
To prevent the spread of diseases, always use clean tools when pruning or propagating, and avoid working with wet plants.
Pest management
Mentha piperita L. ssp. citrata (Ehrh.) Briq. can also be affected by several pests, including:
- Aphids: can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage them, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or spray with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. To manage them, release natural predators like predatory mites or spray with neem oil.
- Cutworms: can cut through stems at the soil level. To manage them, place collars around young plants and handpick the worms at night.
To prevent pest infestations, keep the area around the plants free of debris and weeds and avoid over-fertilizing, which can attract pests.
