How to identify Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Spearmint, also known as Common mint, Menthol mint
Spearmint features lance-shaped, bright green leaves that emit a characteristic aroma when crushed. The leaves are typically 1.5 to 3 inches (4 to 8 cm) in length and grow opposite on square stems that may reach up to 30 inches (76 cm) in height. The plant produces slender spikes of lilac or pink flowers, each approximately 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) long. Spearmint thrives in rich, moist soils and often forms dense, spreading clumps in its preferred habitats.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Herb
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Square stems up to 30 inches (76 cm) tall emit minty aroma when crushed.
Lilac or pink flowers on slender spikes, each approximately 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) long.
Distinctive small ovate nutlets, under an inch long, with delicately hairy apex.
Light green lanceolate leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long, emitting strong minty fragrance.
Densely arranged white to pink tubular flowers on 4-10 cm (1.6-3.9 inches) long spikes.
The leaves of spearmint are light green and range from ovate to lanceolate in shape. Measuring about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) in length, the leaves have a surface that is typically smooth (glabrous), although the underside may have some sparse hairs. They exhibit deep veins and serrated edges. The leaves are nearly sessile with an opposite arrangement and emit a strong minty fragrance when rubbed.
Spearmint flowers are densely arranged in spikes at the tips of stems. Blooming from July to October, they exhibit tiny, tubular forms about 3 mm long. The flowers, ranging in color from white to pink, are encircled around the floral stalk in a spike inflorescence that is 4 to 10 cm (1.6 to 3.9 inches) long. Each flower has four lobes with long stamens extending past the petals, providing a distinct appearance characteristic of the species.
The stem of spearmint is characterized by its square shape, a typical feature of plants in the mint family. It ranges from hairless to somewhat hairy, adding to the tactile diversity. The stem color can vary from light green to a somewhat darker hue. Typically, it measures about 0.1 to 0.5 inches (2 to 12 mm) in thickness, and branches frequently from the leaf nodes. These stems are generally sturdy and have a mildly aromatic scent when crushed.
The fruits of spearmint are distinctive, small ovate nutlets, typically measuring under an inch (a few millimeters) in length. Each fruit possesses a delicately hairy apex, contributing to its characteristic texture. These nutlets are noted for being smooth to the touch with a subtle sheen on their surface. Upon maturation, the fruiting structure will separate into four single-seeded nutlets, which is a common trait within the species. These nutlets maintain a uniform color that complements the green foliage of spearmint.
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Scientific Classification of Spearmint
