Hubbry Logo
Mentha aquaticaMentha aquaticaMain
Open search
Mentha aquatica
Community hub
Mentha aquatica
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Mentha aquatica
Mentha aquatica
Mentha aquatica
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Mentha aquatica
Plant in flower
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Mentha
Species:
M. aquatica
Binomial name
Mentha aquatica
Synonyms[2]
List
    • Marrubium aquaticum (L.) Uspensky
    • Mentha acuta Opiz
    • Mentha acutata Opiz
    • Mentha affinis Boreau nom. illeg.
    • Mentha aromatica Opiz ex Déségl.
    • Mentha augusta Opiz ex Déségl.
    • Mentha auneticensis Opiz
    • Mentha aurita Weihe ex Fresen.
    • Mentha avellinii Tod. ex Bertol.
    • Mentha avellinii Tod. ex Lojac.
    • Mentha brachiata Weihe ex Fresen.
    • Mentha bugulifolia Weihe ex Fresen.
    • Mentha calaminthifolia (Vis.) Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha capitata Opiz
    • Mentha cetica Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha chaixii Strail
    • Mentha cordata Jan ex Nyman
    • Mentha crenatodentata Strail
    • Mentha denticulata Strail
    • Mentha deseglisei Malinv. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha dubia Chaix ex Vill.
    • Mentha dunensis Strail
    • Mentha duriuscula Heinr.Braun & Topitz
    • Mentha duriuscula (Heinr.Braun & Topitz) Trautm.
    • Mentha elongata (Pérard) Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha eriantha K.Koch
    • Mentha glabra Colla nom. illeg.
    • Mentha glomerata Stokes
    • Mentha grandidentata Strail
    • Mentha hirsuta Huds.
    • Mentha hirta Caldas nom. illeg.
    • Mentha hybrida Aresch.
    • Mentha hygrophila Topitz
    • Mentha hystrix Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha incisoserrata Strail
    • Mentha intermedia Host nom. illeg.
    • Mentha × intricata Debeaux
    • Mentha lateovata Strail
    • Mentha latifolia Nolte ex Hornem. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha limicola Strail
    • Mentha limnetes (Topitz) Trautm.
    • Mentha limosa (Schur) Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha littoralis Strail
    • Mentha lloydii Boreau
    • Mentha lobeliana (Becker) Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha macrocephala Strail
    • Mentha macrophylla Waisb. ex Trautm. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha microcephala Strail
    • Mentha nederheimensis Strail
    • Mentha nepetifolia Lej.
    • Mentha nigrescens Weihe ex Fresen.
    • Mentha obliqua Raf.
    • Mentha obtuseserrata Opiz ex Malinv.
    • Mentha obtusifolia Opiz ex Déségl.
    • Mentha origanoides Ten.
    • Mentha origanoides Lej. ex Fingerh. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha ortmanniana Opiz
    • Mentha paludosa Sole
    • Mentha palustris Mill.
    • Mentha pedunculata (Pers.) Poir.
    • Mentha pireana Strail
    • Mentha polyanthetica (Topitz) Trautm.
    • Mentha probabilis Schur
    • Mentha purpurea Host
    • Mentha pyrifolia Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha pyrifolia A.Kern. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha ramosissima Strail
    • Mentha ranina Opiz
    • Mentha rauscheri Topitz
    • Mentha riparia Schreb.
    • Mentha riparia Lej. ex Malinv. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha rudaeana Opiz
    • Mentha sativa Sm. nom. illeg.
    • Mentha soleana Strail
    • Mentha stagnalis Topitz
    • Mentha stagnalis (Topitz) Trautm.
    • Mentha stolonifera Opiz
    • Mentha subspicata Weihe ex Fresen.
    • Mentha subthermalis Trautm.
    • Mentha tinantiana Lej. ex Malinv.
    • Mentha trojana Heinr.Braun
    • Mentha umbrosa Opiz
    • Mentha urticifolia Ten.
    • Mentha viennensis Opiz
    • Mentha weiheana Opiz
    • Mentha weissenburgensis F.W.Schultz ex Nyman nom. inval.

Mentha aquatica (water mint; syn. Mentha hirsuta Huds.[3]) is a perennial flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It grows in moist places and is native to much of Europe, northwest Africa and southwest Asia.[3][4]

Description

[edit]

Water mint is a herbaceous rhizomatous perennial plant growing to 90 centimetres (35 in) tall. The stems are square in cross section, green or purple, and variably hairy to almost hairless. The rhizomes are wide-spreading, fleshy, and bear fibrous roots. The leaves are ovate to ovate-lanceolate, 2 to 6 centimetres (0.79 to 2.36 in) long and 1 to 4 centimetres (0.39 to 1.57 in) broad, green (sometimes purplish), opposite, toothed, and vary from hairy to nearly hairless. The flowers of the watermint are tiny, densely crowded, purple, tubular, pinkish to lilac in colour and form a terminal hemispherical inflorescence; flowering is from mid to late summer. Water mint is visited by many types of insects, and can be characterized by a generalized pollination syndrome,[5] but can also spread by underground rhizomes. All parts of the plant have a distinctly minty smell.[4][6][7] Unbranched, hairless plants, with narrower leaves and paler flowers, native to areas of Sweden and Finland near the Baltic Sea, have been called Mentha aquatica var. litoralis.[8]

Mentha aquatica is a polyploid, with 2n = 8x = 96 chromosomes.[9]

Taxonomy

[edit]

Mentha aquatica was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753.[10] As with other Mentha species, it was subsequently re-described under a variety of different names; as of July 2019, Plants of the World Online listed 87 synonyms, including four forms or varieties that it does not recognize.[11] The cultivated eau de Cologne mint (also known as bergamot mint) is considered to be a variety of this species.[9]

It hybridises with Mentha spicata (spearmint) to produce Mentha × piperita (peppermint), a sterile hybrid; with Mentha suaveolens (apple mint) to produce Mentha × suavis; with Mentha arvensis (corn mint) to produce Mentha × verticillata; and with both M. arvensis and M. spicata to give the tri-species hybrid Mentha × smithiana.[4]

Distribution and habitat

[edit]

Water mint is native to much of Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. It has been introduced to North and South America, Australia and some Atlantic islands.[8]

As the name suggests, water mint occurs in the shallow margins and channels of streams, rivers, pools, dikes, ditches, canals, wet meadows, marshes and fens. If the plant grows in the water itself, it rises above the surface of the water. It generally occurs on mildly acidic to calcareous (it is common on soft limestone) mineral or peaty soils.[4][6] M. aquatica can occur in certain fen-meadow habitats such as the Juncus subnodulosus–Cirsium palustre plant association.[12] It is a component of purple moor grass and rush pastures – a type of Biodiversity ActPlan habitat in the UK.[citation needed]

Uses

[edit]

It can be used as an edible herb (like spearmint or peppermint)[13] and to make a herbal tea.[8] The cultivated variety known as eau de Cologne mint or bergamot mint is used to produce mentha citrata oil, also known as bergamot mint oil, an ingredient used in perfumery[9][14] (not to be confused with bergamot essential oil).[citation needed]

[edit]
  • corolla mauve, leaves opposite [15]
    corolla mauve, leaves opposite [15]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Mentha aquatica

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Mentha aquatica, commonly known as water mint, is a herbaceous rhizomatous plant in the family, characterized by its square-section stems growing up to 90 cm tall, opposite oblong to lanceolate leaves (2–6 cm long and 1–4 cm wide) with toothed margins, and dense terminal clusters of tiny tubular flowers that are pinkish to lilac and bloom from June to October. The plant emits a strong minty aroma due to its volatile oils and is octaploid, with hermaphroditic flowers producing four oval nuculae as fruit. Native to temperate and humid regions of Europe, northwest , and southwest , Mentha aquatica has been introduced to other areas including North and South America, , and parts of such as , where it can become invasive in disturbed sites. It thrives in wet to aquatic habitats like marshes, , riverbanks, lake edges, ponds, ditches, and wet meadows, preferring mildly acidic to soils and tolerating submersion. The species spreads rapidly via rhizomes and can form dense stands in human-disturbed or maintained , contributing to its ecological role in stabilizing moist soils while sometimes outcompeting native vegetation. Mentha aquatica is chemically rich, containing essential oils (such as 1,8-cineole and trans-caryophyllene), phenolic acids (e.g., rosmarinic and caffeic acids), (e.g., eriocitrin and luteolin-7-O-glucoside), and other bioactive compounds that impart , , and properties. Traditionally, it has been used in folk medicine across regions like , , and for treating gastrointestinal issues (e.g., , , ), respiratory ailments (e.g., colds, ), and other conditions such as , depression, and skin irritations. In culinary applications, particularly in Iranian and Mediterranean cuisines, its leaves serve as a flavoring in teas, salads, and cooked dishes, valued for its refreshing minty taste. Modern research highlights its potential in functional foods and pharmaceuticals, including antidiabetic effects through α-glucosidase inhibition and protection against .

Morphology and Biology

Physical characteristics

Mentha aquatica is a herbaceous that grows to a height of 10–90 cm, forming upright or angled stems from a spreading that enables vegetative . The stems are characteristically square in cross-section, typically green but sometimes purple-tinged, and range from hairy to nearly hairless, with occasional hairs between the nodes. This rhizomatous structure supports the plant's ability to colonize areas through underground spread. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate to ovate-lanceolate in shape, measuring 2–6 cm in length and 1–4 cm in width, with toothed margins and short petioles. They are green, often with glandular dots, and emit a strong minty aroma when crushed, a trait common to the mint family. The plant's polyploid nature, with a number of 2n = 96, contributes to its vigorous growth and morphological variability. Flowers are tiny, 3–5 long, and appear in dense, hemispherical whorls that form terminal spikes or ball-shaped clusters 15–30 long and 12–20 wide. They are typically to pinkish-lilac, though colors can vary to pale violet, blue, , , or , with fused petals and sepals forming a tubular corolla. Blooming occurs from mid to late summer, specifically July to October in temperate regions.

Growth and reproduction

Mentha aquatica is a that survives winter through its extensive underground s, from which new shoots emerge in spring to initiate growth cycles. This lifecycle enables the to persist in fluctuating conditions, with aboveground stems dying back in colder months while the rhizome system remains viable. The typically reaches its full height of 10–90 cm within a single , with growth rates strongly influenced by levels, thriving best in consistently wet environments. Vegetative reproduction predominates in M. aquatica, occurring primarily through the proliferation of long, thin rhizomes that produce adventitious and shoots, allowing the formation of dense clonal colonies. These rhizomes facilitate rapid spread and colonization of suitable habitats, often covering areas up to several meters in diameter over time. , while possible, is less frequent and involves the production of s from fertilized flowers; however, the reliance on vegetative contributes to low seed set in many populations. Flowering occurs from mid-summer to early autumn, specifically July to October in temperate regions, with small, pale lilac to flowers arranged in dense, spherical clusters at stem tips. Following , the flowers develop into fruits consisting of four small, dry nutlets, each containing a single seed, which aids in occasional dispersal. The exhibits notable adaptations for growth in wet environments, including high tolerance to waterlogging, which it achieves through enhanced activity, membrane stability, and anatomical adjustments such as formation in roots to facilitate oxygen transport under anaerobic conditions. This resilience allows M. aquatica to maintain growth and metabolic functions even during prolonged flooding, supporting its dominance in marshy and riparian zones.

Taxonomy

Classification and etymology

Mentha aquatica L. is the accepted binomial name for this species of , first described by the Swedish in his seminal work in 1753. The species is classified within the family (mint family), the genus L., and the tribe Dumort., in the section Mentha. This placement reflects its position in the subfamily , a diverse group characterized by aromatic herbs with square stems and opposite leaves. The genus name derives from the Latin term for mint, rooted in where the (or Menthe) was transformed into the plant by out of jealousy over her affair with ; this etymological origin is documented in classical texts and . The specific epithet aquatica comes from the Latin word meaning "water-related" or "aquatic," alluding to the plant's preference for habitats such as marshes and stream edges. Over the course of botanical history, has accumulated more than 300 synonyms due to morphological variability and taxonomic confusion, with notable examples including Mentha hirsuta Huds. and Mentha fatida Mill. Cytogenetically, it is an octoploid species with a chromosome number of 2n=96, a high level that facilitates hybridization. Phylogenetically, M. aquatica acts as a key progenitor for numerous hybrid taxa, including the economically important (Mentha × piperita L.).

Hybrids and varieties

Mentha aquatica plays a central role in the hybridization dynamics of the genus, serving as a parental species for several notable hybrids due to its polyploid nature and adaptability. Key hybrids include Mentha × piperita (), resulting from the cross between M. aquatica and M. spicata (), which is a sterile hexaploid (2n=72) valued for its intense aroma. Other significant hybrids are Mentha × suavis, formed by M. aquatica and M. suaveolens (apple mint), and Mentha × verticillata (whorled mint), a cross with M. arvensis (corn mint). Additionally, Mentha × smithiana arises as a complex trihybrid involving M. aquatica, M. arvensis, and M. spicata. These hybrids originate primarily through allopolyploidy and mechanisms, where unreduced gametes from M. aquatica combine with those of diploid or polyploid relatives, often yielding offspring with numbers that enhance vigor or sensory traits such as aroma intensity. The resulting plants may be sterile, like M. × piperita, or fertile, depending on chromosomal compatibility, with contributing to hybrid robustness in environments. Within M. aquatica itself, recognized varieties include the typical var. aquatica, characterized by broad, ovate leaves, and var. crispa, which features curly, crinkled foliage that adds ornamental value while retaining the ' aquatic affinity. Genetic studies underscore M. aquatica's foundational role as a progenitor for many commercial mint cultivars, particularly through its contributions to lineages, where it imparts precursors. Chromosome counts in hybrids vary widely; for instance, M. aquatica typically exhibits 2n=96, while hybrids like certain M. × piperita strains show 2n=72, and others reach 2n=120 due to additive polyploid events. A 2025 study on morphological diversity in M. aquatica populations revealed regional variants with differences in leaf , such as elongated versus rounded forms, and variations in yield from 0.65% to 1.23% in certain accessions, highlighting intraspecific potential for breeding.

Distribution and Habitat

Geographic range

Mentha aquatica is native to much of , ranging from the across to central and , northwest from to , and southwest including and . This thrives in temperate biomes within these regions. The species has been introduced to various parts of the world since the , primarily through and ornamental , becoming naturalized in wetlands across temperate zones. In , it is established in the United States (such as in states like , , New York, and ) and . South American countries including , , , and also host introduced populations. Further introductions have occurred in , , and certain Atlantic islands such as . According to the database, the native range remains stable with no significant contraction reported, while introduced populations in the show increasing prevalence and .

Environmental preferences

Mentha aquatica thrives in wet, marshy environments such as streamsides, ditches, , and pond edges, where it occupies shallow margins and channels of bodies. It tolerates standing water up to 25 cm deep, allowing it to persist in periodically inundated areas. This species exhibits strong tolerance to flooding and seasonal inundation, which aligns with its preference for very wet and soggy conditions, but it is sensitive to prolonged that could desiccate its habitat. The plant favors loamy, nutrient-rich soils that provide good drainage while maintaining high moisture retention, enabling root systems to access consistent water without waterlogging to excess. Suitable soils range from mineral to peaty types, with a pH spectrum from mildly acidic to , typically between 5.5 and 8.0. These characteristics support its growth in heavy clay or substrates common in settings. In terms of climate, Mentha aquatica is adapted to temperate to subtropical zones, where it performs well in full sun to partial shade, though excessive shade reduces vigor. The species occurs from to 1500 m in its native ranges, spanning colline to montane elevations across and adjacent areas.

Ecology

Interactions with wildlife

Mentha aquatica serves as an important nectar source for various pollinators, particularly during its flowering period from to . Primary visitors include bumblebees (Bombus spp.), other bees, hoverflies (Syrphidae family), and , which are attracted to the dense, globular clusters of lilac-pink flowers rich in and pollen. These high visitation rates in summer enhance efficiency in ecosystems, supporting among insect pollinators. The plant's seeds are dispersed primarily through hydrochory via water currents in rivers, , and , allowing of new areas. Additionally, endozoochory by waterbirds contributes to occasional long-distance dispersal, as viable seeds pass through their digestive systems. Herbivory on M. aquatica is limited, with occasional browsing by deer or feeding by slugs deterred by the plant's volatile essential oils, which produce a strong minty aroma unpalatable to many herbivores. Mentha aquatica forms symbiotic associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, such as Rhizophagus irregularis, which enhance nutrient uptake, particularly and other minerals, in nutrient-poor wet soils. These fungi extend the root system's reach, improving plant growth and resilience. The plant also exhibits potential allelopathic effects on neighboring vegetation through root exudates containing and other inhibitors, which can suppress and growth of competing species. Furthermore, M. aquatica acts as a larval host for mint moths ( spp.) and other , where caterpillars feed on its leaves, contributing to the plant-insect food web.

Ecosystem role and invasiveness

_Mentha aquatica contributes to ecosystem stability through its extensive rhizomatous growth, which binds soil particles and reduces along banks and edges. This forms dense mats in marshy habitats, offering shelter and nutritional for various aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife, thereby supporting local food webs in native European, African, and Asian wetlands. In terms of , M. aquatica promotes diversity by providing and resources that attract a range of pollinators and herbivores, enhancing overall abundance in communities. However, in non-native regions such as , the plant's aggressive vegetative spread can outcompete indigenous , potentially reducing native plant diversity and altering community structure. For instance, its rapid colonization via rhizomes has led to dense stands that displace slower-growing natives in disturbed aquatic sites. Mentha aquatica is classified as invasive in certain introduced areas, particularly in parts of where it forms monocultures through prolific propagation, impacting and composition. In , for example, it is predicted to pose a high invasion risk and is not recommended for planting without strict management. Although less documented in , its introduction there raises similar concerns for potential spread in moist habitats. Globally, the species holds Least Concern status under the , reflecting its wide native distribution and lack of broad population threats, though regional monitoring continues for invasive impacts on wetland degradation. Recent studies, including a 2025 analysis of morphological diversity in M. aquatica populations, highlight variations in traits like plant height and leaf structure that may influence adaptability and spread in diverse climates, potentially exacerbating invasiveness in non-native environments.

Essential oil composition

The of Mentha aquatica is typically extracted from the aerial parts, particularly the leaves, via or hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus, yielding 0.5–1.5% (v/w) based on dry weight. This oil is dominated by monoterpenes, both hydrocarbon and oxygenated forms, which contribute to its characteristic minty aroma with bergamot-like notes suitable for perfumery applications. Major components vary by chemotype, with linalool-rich variants prevalent in European populations reaching up to 50% (e.g., 27.3–47.2% combined with ). Other significant constituents include (10–20% in menthol chemotypes), 1,8-cineole (up to 6.7%), and (5–12%), alongside menthofuran (up to 58% in some regional types like those from or during specific growth stages). Known chemotypes encompass /, menthofuran, pulegone, , and piperitone oxide, reflecting within the . Composition exhibits considerable variation influenced by genetics, environmental factors such as soil levels, geographic region, and harvest timing during the ontogenetic cycle. For instance, a 2025 study on regional samples from identified 44 volatile compounds via GC-MS profiling, with no single dominant component exceeding 5.15% (e.g., β-caryophyllene), highlighting intraspecific diversity. Analytical techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) are standard for profiling these volatiles, often confirming high content (over 80% in oxygenated forms) and supporting the oil's potential through identified phenolic fractions.

Bioactive compounds and properties

_Mentha aquatica contains a variety of non-volatile bioactive compounds, primarily phenolics such as rosmarinic acid and including and naringenin, which contribute significantly to its antioxidant capacity. Rosmarinic acid levels in extracts have been reported up to 2.56 mg/g, while reaches approximately 31 µg/g, as identified through LC-MS/MS analysis. These compounds, along with others like eriodictyol-O-rutinoside (up to 145 µg/mg), enable effective scavenging of free radicals in assays, with IC50 values ranging from 7.5 to 38.9 µg/mL depending on the extract type. The total phenolic content in M. aquatica extracts typically falls between 100 and 200 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight, though values up to 337 mg GAE/g have been observed in certain populations. Organic acids and tannins are also present, enhancing the overall polyphenolic profile and supporting antioxidant activity through mechanisms like ferrous ion chelation and β-carotene bleaching inhibition. This phenolic richness correlates strongly with the plant's ability to mitigate oxidative stress, as demonstrated in multiple in vitro models. In terms of antimicrobial properties, non-volatile extracts from M. aquatica exhibit activity against pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, attributed to the membrane-disrupting effects of phenolics like rosmarinic acid. Anti-inflammatory effects arise from enzyme inhibition, including monoamine oxidase (MAO) by flavonoids such as naringenin isolated from the plant. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses, often coupled with DAD-ESI-MS, reveal compositional variations influenced by environmental factors, including seasonal changes in phenolic accumulation. Toxicity profiles indicate low risk at typical exposure levels, with cytotoxicity IC50 values exceeding 500 µg/mL in human dermal fibroblasts and neuronal cells. However, individuals with mint allergies may experience hypersensitivity reactions, such as contact dermatitis, due to cross-reactivity within the Mentha genus. No major toxicity concerns have emerged from recent studies on non-volatile fractions.

Uses and Cultivation

Traditional and culinary applications

Mentha aquatica, commonly known as water mint, has long been incorporated into traditional European culinary practices for its distinctive minty aroma and flavor, derived from its essential oils. In historical contexts, the plant's leaves were frequently added to salads, soups, and sauces to provide a refreshing zest, with mint valued as flavorings in . In Mediterranean traditions, water mint has been used to season lamb dishes, enhancing savory preparations with its pungent notes. Culinary applications extend to herbal infusions, where fresh or dried leaves are steeped to create teas enjoyed for their cooling taste. The plant also flavors fish dishes and vinegars, adding a sharp, aromatic element to marinades and dressings. A variant known as (Mentha aquatica var. citrata), prized for its citrus-like undertones, is particularly favored in preparing to accompany roasted meats. Nutritionally, Mentha aquatica provides and remains low in calories, making it a suitable addition to diets when consumed fresh or dried. In modern contexts, it appears in beverages such as , though it is less prevalent than in contemporary recipes.

Medicinal and pharmacological uses

In , infusions of Mentha aquatica leaves have been used to alleviate ailments, including digestive disorders and , due to its and stomachic properties. These preparations are also employed for treating colds and fevers, often as a to relieve associated symptoms like sore throats and headaches. In , the plant serves as a digestive aid and , with leaf extracts applied for gastrointestinal issues and minor infections. Pharmacologically, M. aquatica exhibits properties that help mitigate , as evidenced by its ability to scavenge free radicals , attributed to and . A 2020 review of the highlighted these effects, positioning M. aquatica as a contributor to stress-related prevention. Additionally, its activity targets pathogens such as and fungi, with essential oils showing efficacy in a 2023 study on nanoparticle-mediated applications. Specific applications include the use of M. aquatica for (IBS) relief, where extracts reduced bloating severity in a , though no significant improvement in . effects support topical uses for skin irritations, linked to inhibition of pro-inflammatory pathways. For , leaf infusions inhibit α-glucosidase enzymes, potentially slowing carbohydrate absorption and aiding glycemic control. Clinical evidence remains limited, with most data from in vitro and animal models; however, a 2025 study demonstrated strong antioxidant capacity in M. aquatica extracts from Iranian populations, suggesting potential for disease model applications. Regarding safety, mint oils including those from Mentha species are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association for flavoring uses. Nonetheless, consumption should be avoided during pregnancy due to menthol content, which may stimulate uterine contractions.

Propagation and commercial growing

Mentha aquatica is primarily propagated vegetatively through division of its rhizomes in spring, which allows for rapid establishment of new from established clumps, or by taking stem cuttings of 10–15 cm in length during the . These methods leverage the plant's vigorous rhizomatous growth habit to produce genetically identical offspring quickly. While seeds are viable and can be sown in spring under conditions with relatively prompt , this approach is slower and less commonly used due to variable results and the plant's tendency toward invasiveness in cultivation. For optimal growth, Mentha aquatica requires moist to wet, fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5), preferably loamy textures enriched with to support its high needs. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, tolerating semi-shaded woodland edges but performing best in sunny, open positions with consistent moisture, such as margins or irrigated beds. In cultivation, plants should be spaced 30–45 cm apart to allow for formation via rhizomes while preventing overcrowding that could promote . Commercially, Mentha aquatica is cultivated on a limited scale in , particularly in , where it contributes to production for perfumery and pharmaceutical applications due to its high oil content (often ≥1%). Harvesting occurs 2–3 times per year, typically during the flowering stage in summer, with yields varying under optimal conditions, influenced by drying methods like oven-drying at 50°C to maximize extraction efficiency. These practices support its use in and food industries, though it remains less dominant than hybrid mints like . Key challenges in cultivation include managing pests and diseases such as mint rust (Puccinia menthae), which causes orange pustules on leaves and stems, potentially reducing yields if unchecked, and controlling weeds that compete in moist environments. Organic methods are preferred, involving crop rotation every 3–4 years, mulching for weed suppression, and disease-free stock to minimize chemical inputs while maintaining soil health. Recent advances include 2025 studies identifying high-yield ecotypes of Mentha aquatica with contents up to 1.23% in subsequent growth years, alongside efforts to breed drought-tolerant variants through morphological selection and stress induction techniques to expand cultivation into less water-abundant regions.

References

  1. https://ejs.tdmu.edu.vn/uploads/paper/files/4-Pham-Thi-My-Tram.pdf
  2. https://www.aimspress.com/fileOther/PDF/Molecular/MolSci-04-00288.pdf
  3. https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/mentha/aquatica/
  4. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:450192-1
  5. https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/GreatLakes/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2668
  6. https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_98152_9c858d2660c40cf5eb1875a6f1dd88d7.pdf
  7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11673699/
  8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/mentha-aquatica
  9. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331427277_Genetic_diversity_survey_of_Mentha_aquatica_L_and_Mentha_suaveolens_Ehrh_mint_crop_ancestors
  10. https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/water-mint
  11. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/75995/mentha-aquatica/details
  12. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mentha%20aquatica
  13. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301594390_Effect_of_salinity_and_waterlogging_on_growth_anatomical_and_antioxidative_responses_in_Mentha_aquatica_L
  14. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10804064/
  15. https://data.canadensys.net/vascan/taxon/6400
  16. https://www.maltawildplants.com/LABT/Mentha_aquatica.php
  17. https://www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk/news/joanne-howdle-diversity-of-ways-to-use-refreshing-mint-bota-273412/
  18. https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=33191
  19. https://bsapubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3732/ajb.89.12.2017
  20. https://academic.oup.com/g3journal/article/14/12/jkae195/7904854
  21. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:451306-1
  22. https://plantatlas2020.org/atlas/2cd4p9h.900
  23. https://bsapubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.3732/ajb.89.12.2017
  24. https://openpublishing.library.umass.edu/jmap/article/1732/galley/1690/download/
  25. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/155864/mentha-aquatica-var-crispa/details
  26. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7466659/
  27. https://archive.bsbi.org.uk/Wats3p244.pdf
  28. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/mentha-piperita
  29. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/397240931_Study_of_morphological_diversity_antioxidant_capacity_and_essential_oil_compositions_of_Mentha_aquatica_L
  30. https://invasions.si.edu/nemesis/chesreport/species_summary/mentha%2520aquatica
  31. https://www.first-nature.com/flowers/mentha-aquatica.php
  32. https://www.infoflora.ch/en/flora/mentha-aquatica.html
  33. https://temperate.theferns.info/plant/Mentha+aquatica
  34. https://pza.sanbi.org/mentha-aquatica
  35. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/366347048_Seed_dispersal_by_waterbirds_a_mechanistic_understanding_by_simulating_avian_digestion
  36. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2019.00854/full
  37. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/396198508_The_Effect_of_Rhizophagus_irregularis_and_Salicylic_Acid_on_Growth_and_Phytoremediation_of_Lead_Pb_by_Water_Mint_Mentha_aquatica_L
  38. https://butterfly-conservation.org/moths/mint-moth
  39. https://hal.science/hal-02390372v1/document
  40. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333401724_Reciprocal_interactions_between_the_native_Mentha_aquatica_and_the_invasive_Ludwigia_hexapetala_in_an_outdoor_experiment
  41. https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu/assessments/mentha-aquatica/
  42. https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f1abafa5178a4c4a973f18b032fccb1b
  43. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/56523600/56523604
  44. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Chemical-composition-of-Mentha-aquatica-essential-oil_fig1_233966267
  45. https://academicjournals.org/journal/AJB/article-full-text-pdf/B9F3A6D71111
  46. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/16/4/633
  47. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212429221001322
  48. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X1100601018
  49. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8337
  50. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10143930/
  51. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273317033_Chemical_composition_of_essential_oils_from_Mentha_aquatica_L_at_different_moments_of_the_ontogenetic_cycle
  52. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0981942817302553
  53. https://researcherslinks.com/current-issues/Region-Specific-Volatile-Composition/14/1/11628/html
  54. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8000339/
  55. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6719046/
  56. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169116306074
  57. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5480757_Isolation_of_the_MAO-inhibitor_naringenin_from_Mentha_aquatica_L
  58. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3390130/
  59. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6161068/
  60. https://www.fruitsoftheforage.co.uk/blogs/wild-guide/water-mint-mentha-aquatica
  61. https://www.jekkas.com/blogs/jekkas-blog/jekkas-advice-on-growing-mint-and-her-top-10
  62. https://paulkirtley.co.uk/2011/water-mint-mentha-aquatica/
  63. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gT-bb66Jyrc
  64. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mentha+aquatica
  65. http://umj.umsu.ac.ir/browse.php?a_code=A-10-2675-4&slc_lang=en&sid=1
  66. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/13/12/1512
  67. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7923432/
  68. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2023/nj/d3nj01737k
  69. https://jtim.tums.ac.ir/index.php/jtim/article/view/412
  70. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372365513_Mentha_aquatica_is_a_source_of_bioactive_compounds_with_health-promoting_effects_on_type_2_diabetes
  71. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027869151930660X
  72. https://charnwoodforaging.co.uk/water-mint-mentha-aquatica/
  73. https://propagate.one/how-to-propagate-mentha-aquatica/
  74. https://deepgreenpermaculture.com/2025/08/02/mint-growing-guide/
  75. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/mint/growing-watermint.htm
  76. https://www.picturethisai.com/care/Mentha_aquatica.html
  77. https://www.rhs.org.uk/disease/mint-rust
  78. https://ag.purdue.edu/department/hla/extension/_docs/2023-mw-veg-guide-mint-20221020.pdf
  79. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214786123000438
  80. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/11/3/599
  81. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214786125000609
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.