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Mexican mint
Also known as: Soup mint, French thyme, Country borage, Broad leaf thyme, Mexican thyme, Three-in-one herb, Mother of herbs, Greek oregano
Not truly in the Oregano family, mexican mint or Coleus amboinicus is actually a perennial succulent from the mint family that is used for the same culinary purposes as oregano. Although it is often grown as a houseplant, mexican mint can be grown in the garden in warm weather. The flavor is exceptionally strong, so use a moderate amount of mexican mint when cooking.
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Toxic to Pets
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Spring, Winter
Bloom Time
Spring, Winter
Harvest Time
15 cm to 30 cm
Plant Height
50 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
7 mm to 9 mm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
White, Purple, Lavender, Orange
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Non-dormant
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Mexican mint

Distribution of Mexican mint

Distribution Map
Mexican mint is native to the South Asian region and has been introduced to various parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. It is also cultivated in some regions outside its native range, showing its adaptability to diverse climates and its ease of cultivation.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Woodland, coastal bush, rocky slopes and loamy, sandy flats
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Economic Value
Essential oils of plectranthus amboinicus can be used as insect repellents.
Garden Use
Mexican mint is commonly found in partially sunny gardens where it provides an eye-catching splash of bright green. It is also often seen around porches and patios. Companion plants include those that also prefer this type of location, like the begonia, impatiens, coleus, and fuchsia. Gardeners grow it for its distinct aroma of oregano and as a source of herbs.
Symbolism
Happiness and optimism
Interesting Facts
Plectranthus amboinicus is a very common plant used by people. Those from older generations have a lot of stories to share about it. In earlier times, people identified plants by their shape and smell, and this plant with its strong aroma was called plectranthus amboinicus.
Name Story
Cuban oregano||French thyme||Indian borage||Indian mint||Mexican mint||Spanish thyme: Despite its most common name - mexican mint, it is believed that this succulent-like herb is native to India. However, the origin and the history of Coleus amboinicus is so unclear, that the plant carries the various common names such as mexican mint, French thyme, Indian mint, Mexican mint, and Spanish thyme.
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Toxicity

Mexican mint plants are toxic to cats and dogs. Contact or ingestion can cause irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, and muscle weakness. Prompt veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected for best outcomes. Prevent access to mexican mint to protect pets' health.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Mexican mint

Care Guide for Mexican mint

Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Mexican mint, originating from semi-arid regions, thrives in drier conditions and is drought-resistant. Watering weekly meets its moderate moisture needs. Often grown in containers, it requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, enhancing its aromatic foliage.
Fertilize: For 'mexican mint', use high nitrogen fertilizers monthly (spring to fall, sparingly in winter) at half strength to promote healthy foliage. Water the soil beforehand to avoid root burn and adjust feeding frequency based on growth stages to ensure optimal health and establishment.
Pruning: Mexican mint features aromatic, fleshy leaves and grows rapidly. Prune in early to late spring to promote bushiness, removing leggy stems and dead foliage. Ensure good air circulation and sunlight penetration, and maintain clean tools to avoid over-pruning, which can stress the plant.
Propagation: Native to tropical regions, mexican mint is valued for its aromatic leaves and medicinal properties. Propagate via stem cuttings by removing lower leaves and rooting in water or moist soil. Provide warmth and bright, indirect light for strong root development, making propagation accessible for beginners.
Repotting: Repot mexican mint every 2-3 years during spring to support moderate growth. Use a pot slightly larger to prevent over-watering. Post-repotting, maintain consistent moisture and provide indirect light. Avoid compacted soil for optimal health and growth.
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