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Characteristics of a Mint Plant

Mint (Mentha spp.) is a perennial, aggressively growing herb. Oils from a variety of mints, such as peppermint and spearmint, add flavor to foods, toothpastes and teas. According to the Utah State University Cooperative Extension, merely brushing against a plant will release its fragrance. Propagate mint plants from seed, cuttings or division and preserve leaves by freezing or drying.

  1. Identification

    • Mint plants grow up to 2 to 3 feet tall. The leaves vary in appearance, from dark green peppermint to light green and white apple mint. Mint plants bloom in a variety of colors, from pink apple mint flowers to lavender peppermint flowers.

    Geography

    • Tolerant of temperatures as cold as minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit, mint plants thrive as far north as United States Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zone 4. Mints grow best in full sun to partial shade, in moist soil.

    Considerations

    • To avoid interference with other garden plants, grow mints in a separate bed or container. According to Utah State University, you should add no more than 1 or 2 inches of water each week to prevent fungal disease and promote adequate oil production.