Description of a Spearmint Plant

Stem

• Spearmint stems are each between 18 and 24 inches high and square in shape. Square stems are a characteristic of all mints and a few other plants, such as like basil and lemon balm. The stems are bright green with some varieties having darker green shades and sometimes purple.

Leaves

• Mint leaves vary in shades of green, but spearmint is mostly bright green in color. The leaves grow opposite each other up the stem and vary in size with most about 2 inches long. Spearmint has smooth leaves that may curl, crinkle or lie completely flat. All are pointed at the end and rounded near the stem with serrations on the edges.

Flowers

• Spearmint produces tubular flowers in pink, lilac or white that appear in whorls or axils above the leaves. Each flower has four, tiny, lobed petals. The flowers appear in the spring and early summer and attract bees. Pinching off flowers encourages more growth and preserves the plant's volatile oils.

Scent and Flavor

• All mints have a distinctive scent and flavor. The scent and flavor is pungent, biting and might cause the eyes to water. In the past, spearmint was strewn on the floor to keep unpleasant scents at bay and was often used in sickrooms. Spearmint flavoring is used in chewing gum and in mint jelly. Spearmint has a more docile flavor and scent than that of peppermint.

Miscellaneous Information

• All mints including spearmint are somewhat invasive. It grows quickly and spreads through underground runners and stems. Spearmint enjoys full sun and well-drained soil. Placing it in a pot or planter edged with a walkway or wall keeps it from overrunning your garden.