Wild Mint
Mentha arvensis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Mentha arvensis (Wild Mint) is a native Oregon forb that blooms purple flowers from June through August. This aromatic plant thrives in moist soils and attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Wild Mint is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Wild Mint as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 39 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wild mint is a spreading perennial herb that forms low patches with aromatic foliage and small clusters of white to pale purple flowers in summer. This native mint thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture and can quickly colonize suitable spots through underground runners.
Growing Wild Mint
Grow Wild Mint in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Mint takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit can appear unkempt
- May be viewed as weedy rather than ornamental
- Difficult to contain within defined planting areas
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. The dense foliage also provides shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Wild Mint bloom in Oregon?
- Mentha arvensis blooms from June through August, producing small purple flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Wild Mint?
- Wild Mint attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its fragrant flowers during the summer blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Wild Mint prefer?
- This native mint tolerates full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to high moisture levels in the soil.
- Is Wild Mint toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Wild Mint is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Wild Mint toxic to cats?
- Yes. Wild Mint is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Wild Mint toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Wild Mint as toxic to livestock.
- Is Wild Mint HOA-friendly?
- Wild Mint takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Wild Mint and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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