About
Mentha spicata, spearmint, is a vigorous, rhizomatous perennial forming colonies of upright, four-ribbed stems to 100 cm with vivid-green, oval, serrated, sweet-scented leaves 5�9 cm long. Slender, terminal spikes of light-purple flowers 2�3 mm across are produced in summer. The most popular culinary mint � excellent for sauces, drinks, and teas. Can spread vigorously � best contained.
About the genus
Mentha, the mints, are aromatic, rhizomatous perennials with opposite, toothed leaves and small, tubular flowers in spikes or whorls in summer. Widely grown as culinary herbs and ornamental border plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants
Native toEurope to China
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist soil, in any situation. Water newly planted mint until established, and in summer if grown in pots. In damp soils, the plants have the potential to become a nuisance so restrict the root run in a deep container and plunge into the ground, or plant in a well-chosen site where it can grow unrestricted. Plants grown in pots will benefit from splitting and dividing every few years. For more information see mint cultivation
PruningHarvest young sprigs regularly to encourage bushy growth and cut back to 5 cm from the base after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to sage leafhopper, blue mint beetle and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and mint rust