The origin of the genus name is from the identical Greek word meaning thornmint.

The four known species of Acanthomintha are:[1] All thornmints are aromatic annual wildflowers with erect stems and petioled leaves.

The characteristics of the genus flower are with a two-lipped calyx and lobes spine-tipped, re-inforcing the basis of the common name.

Acanthomintha corollae are funnel shaped, always white, but sometimes with a tinging of rose or lavender color.

Thornmint styles are slender and their fruit is ovoid in shape with smooth exterior texture.