Mentha aquatica; The Water Mint is an extremely rare species on Iceland, but it can be found very easily; at the hot springs of Reykjanes peninsula in the north of the west-fjords. Here bathers in their swimming pants and bikini's walk unaware along this rare occurance on Iceland. It only grows on thermal soils in two localities on Iceland of which Reykjanes in North-Western Iceland is one. The other is at Reykhólar, a village in the south-eastern re3gion of the west-fjord district. It is a simple walk from the swimming pool of the village to the hot springs. It is believed the species is a rather new accidental introduction on Iceland. It can be used to make mint-tea: the odour is unmistaken mint-like, but other mint species are better for the purpose.
It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceeae). The Icelandic name of this species is Vatnamynta.
FLORA OF ICELAND elements: Mentha aquatica, Water Mint, Vatnamynta
A brief introduction to Iceland plants
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Other members of the Gentian, Broomrape and Mint families
Other members of the Gentian, Broomrape and Mint families