Acanthomintha ilicifolia, known by the common name San Diego thornmint, is a rare species of flowering plant in the mint family.

The flowers of the San Diego thornmint distinguish it from the other members of its genus by the hairless anthers and style.

[2] Seed dispersal for the San Diego thornmint is limited, so the range of the species has remained largely the same.

[2] Major threats toward the San Diego thornmint fall into five categories:[2] This is the most significant factor affecting the species.

Older threats that have since lessened in significance include mining operations that alter soil state.

Some of the most common invasive species in the habitat are Avena spp., Brachypodium distachyon, Brassica nigra, Centaurea melitensis, Cynara cardunculus, and Foeniculum vulgare.

Other examples of habitat modification for the species include general urbanization, grazing, dumping, and off-road vehicle usage.

Regional efforts from the city of San Diego and the surrounding county provide species regulation as well.

The review also recommends a status change to level 8, having moderate threats with a high likelihood of recovery.

In addition, 39 of the estimated 55 extant occurrences are protected in conserved areas, compared to 7 at the time of listing.

Studies on the pollination[7] and gene flow[6] of this species are also important for conservation and expansion of the plant into new areas.