Horsemint

(Mentha longifolia)

Horsemint (Mentha longifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Mentha longifolia, commonly known as Horsemint, is a perennial herb that can be evergreen or semi-deciduous depending on the climate. It is native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and areas near streams (riparian zones) across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Horsemint typically grows to a height of 40–120 cm with a spread that can be quite extensive due to its creeping rhizome. The plant features oblong-elliptical to lanceolate leaves, measuring 5–10 cm in length and 1.5–3 cm in width, which are green to greyish-green on the upper surface and white below. The foliage is known for its peppermint-scented aroma, which is particularly strong when the leaves are crushed.

Horsemint’s flowers are small, ranging from 3–5 mm in length, and can be lilac, purplish, or white. They are showy due to their dense arrangement in clusters along tall, branched spikes that taper to a point, blooming in mid to late summer. This plant is valued for its aromatic foliage and attractive flowers, making it a popular choice for herb gardens, borders, and naturalistic plantings. Horsemint thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance but can spread aggressively, so gardeners may need to manage its growth to prevent it from becoming invasive. In some regions, it is considered an invasive species, so it is important to check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen, Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and riparian areas

Other Names

Common Names: Fillymint, St. John’s Horsemint, Langbladet Mynte, Roß-Minze, Rossminze, Harmaaminttu, Gråmynte, Hertsmunt, Gråmynta

Scientific Names: , Mentha longifolia, Mentha sedunensis, Mentha spicata subsp. longifolia, Mentha spicata var. longifolia, Mentha longifolia var. cooperi, Mentha longifolia var. longifolia, Mentha caerulescens, Mentha mellifluens, Mentha nepetifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds.