[1][2] It has been identified only within the Honans Native Forest Reserve, near Mount Gambier, South Australia.

[3] Prior to its identification in 2010, specimens of M. atrolilacina had been considered part of the related species Mentha diemenica.

[4] The species was discovered by the South Australian Seed Conservation Centre (SASCC).

[5] The taxonomic name atrolilacina derives from Latin atrolilacinus meaning "dark lilac," in reference to the color of the corolla lobes of the species.

[2] It shares its common name "Slender mint" with the species Mentha diemenica from which it was distinguished.