Mentha species
Family: Lamiaceae

These rambling, perennial herbs spread by rhizomes and are easily grown in almost all soil types and climatic conditions, apart from the very hottest and driest. They have prostrate or erect, branched stems and terminal spikes of small, white or purple flowers. The aromatic, volatile oils are stored mostly in the oval-shaped leaves. There are a number of widely grown species, each with a distinctive flavor and aroma. Mint adds a delicious taste to cool, summer drinks. Mint sauce, served with lamb, is made from spearmint, or common mint.

Species

M. x piperita, peppermint, zone 3, is an erect plant, to 60 cm (24 in), with slightly reddish stems, and grown mostly for its oil. The oval, toothed, pointed leaves are sometimes hairy on the undersides. Small, purple flowers are borne in terminal spikes.

M. pulegium, pennyroyal, zone 7, has a prostrate habit, with small leaves, about 1 cm (½ in) long, and clusters of mauve flowers. Pennyroyal can be invasive, in which case it should be treated as a weed.

M. spicata, spearmint or common mint, zone 3, has erect stems to 60 cm (24 in), oval, toothed, almost stalkless leaves, about 5 cm (2 in) long, and loose spikes of purple flowers.

M. suaveolens, applemint, zone 6, has sturdy, upright stems to 60 cm (24 in), with hairy, roundish leaves and dense spikes of purplish white flowers. Variegated applemint is one of the many varieties of these species.

Cultivation

Mint prefers a moderately rich, moist soil and some shade. Grow in pots or in a corner of the garden as it can be very invasive. Water regularly during summer. Propagate from cuttings or root divisions, making fresh plantings every few years. Pennyroyal, a useful groundcover, may be cut back with a mower after flowering to keep it at about 2.5 cm (1 in) high. Cut mint in the morning before the dew has dried. To dry, tie in small bunches and hang in a spot with a maximum temperature of 30°C (86°F). Once dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store in air-tight containers.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.