Data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria

View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora

Mentha canadensis (syn. M. arvensis var. canadensis) is a species of mint. The flowers are bluish or a slight violet tint. The plant is upright about 4 inches to 18 inches tall. Leaves grow opposite from each other, and flower bunches appear at the upper leaf axil. The mint grows in wet areas but not directly in water, so it will be found near sloughs, lake and river edges. Flowers bloom from July to August. The leaves have a distinct peppermint smell when pinched or crushed as the plant contains aromatic oils. Pick leaves at any time during plant growth, and they may be dried. Mint jelly is a popular preparation. To make mint tea, pour boiling water over a scant teaspoon full of dried leaves, or over 1/3 cup fresh leaves. Iced tea is also a treat. Mint leaf candy can also be made. The First nations used mint tea to remedy bad breath or toothache, or to cure hiccups. The mint could also be used for fox or lynx bait. The related species Mentha canadensis is also included in Mentha arvensis by some authors as two varieties, M. arvensis var. glabrata Fernald (in reference to North American plants) and M. arvensis var. piperascens Malinv. ex L. H. Bailey (in reference to eastern Asian plants).

Plant type

Perennial herb

Size

4 - 18 in Tall

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Low, Moderate

Site type

Wet places

Plant communities

Wetland-Riparian

Caterpillars
Butterflies

Butterflies and moths supported

0 confirmed and 17 likely

Confirmed Likely

Miranda Underwing

Amphipyra pyramidoides

Anstenoptilia marmarodactyla

Alfalfa Looper Moth

Autographa californica

Soybean Looper Moth

Chrysodeixis includens