Mentha Species Identification in Colombia

A botany instructor in Colombia has two Lamiaceae plants called "Menta" and "Hierbabuena," both thought to be Mentha species, and seeks clarification.

Expert Advice: Flower structure is essential for Mentha species ID. Take flowering samples to a local horticultural center in Colombia. Many Mentha species hybridize freely; visual ID from leaf photos alone is unreliable. A local expert can distinguish Menta (often Mentha spicata - spearmint) from Hierbabuena (often Mentha × villosa or other local variants).