Spearmint (Mentha spicata): The Classic Mint for Tea and Cooking

Spearmint: The Gentle, Sweet Mint for Every Kitchen

Spearmint (Mentha spicata), also called English mint, is the most commonly grown culinary mint. Its bright green, pointed leaves have a sweet, mild menthol flavor without the intense cooling of peppermint. It's a vigorous perennial that spreads by rhizomes.

Botanical Profile

Native to Europe and Asia, naturalized worldwide. Grows 12–24 inches tall with square stems and opposite leaves. Lilac-pink flowers appear in summer. The essential oil (carvone) gives the characteristic flavor.

Culinary and Garden Uses

• Mint tea: The classic digestive tea.
• Mojitos, mint juleps: Essential for authentic flavor.
• Lamb, peas, salads, desserts: Versatile culinary herb.
• Groundcover: Vigorous spread covers ground; contain in pots.

Grow in part shade to full sun, moist, rich soil. Very aggressive; plant in containers or confined beds. Divide frequently. Hardy in USDA zones 4–9.