Spearmint

Mentha spicata L.

MEN-tha spike-AY-tah

Lamiaceae

Explanation of name: Minthe is a nymph in Greek mythology, transformed by Pluto into this herb. Spicata presumably refers to the spike inflorescence.

Natural range: Eurasia, Africa

Recognition: Fragrant mint to about 3’ tall, the leaves lanceolate or nearly so, serrate. Small bilabiate flowers in a spike, white to lilac (GRI).

Note: Peppermint (Mentha Xpiperita L. is a hybrid of this species and M. aquatica L.)

Landscape uses: Popular herb for teas, aromatherapy, cooking and relief of colds. Potentially invasive.

Internet source: http://pss.uvm.edu/pss123/hermint.html