Assessment of morphological characteristics and essential oil of horsemint (Mentha longifolia L.) in different habitats of South Kerman province

Horsemint (Mentha longifolia L.) is a valuable medicinal plant in a wide range of natural resources in Iran. In this research morphological characteristics and essential oil percentage of horsemint in different habitats of South Kerman province was investigated. Data were analyzed using a completely randomized design with four replications. The evaluated habitats included Dehbakari, Marghak, Sarduiyeh, Esfandagheh, Delfard and Jiroft. The results indicated that the highest pH, EC, magnesium, nitrogen and potassium was recorded in Esfandagheh. The highest phosphorus, organic matter and plant height was obtained in Dehbakari. Also, the fresh and dry weight of plants in Jiroft was higher than other investigated habitats. The highest number of sub-branches and number of leaves was related to Delfard habitat. The highest essential oil percentage was obtained in Delfard. Dehbakari and Marghak habitat had the lowest essential oil percentage. Therefore, suggested that with increasing altitude, morphological characteristics and essential oil percentage of horsemint decreased.