Mentha spicata (Spearmint) is a common perennial herb that is native to Europe and temperate Asia. Spearmint is grown worldwide for its food flavouring, herbal teas, condiments and medicinal properties. It is frost and drought tolerant, adapts to a wide range of growing conditions, repels unwanted insects in the garden and produces shades of pink, white and purple flowers.
Suitable for Temperate and Sub-Tropical climates.
Mentha spicata is also commonly known as Lamb Mint, Mackerel Mint and Common Mint and its oil is used in a wide variety of industries.
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Growth
Mentha spicata is a hardy perennial herb plant that grows to 1 metre (3 feet) by 1 metre and is easy to grow in a wide range of soils. Spearmint requires little maintenance to get started but requires strict control to ensure it is contained. Mature plants can become extremely invasive and therefore are often grown in pots.
The stems and foliage are usually hairless while the leaves have serrated margins with pointed tips which gives rise to the plants name. Flowering occurs during Summer and can produce pink, white or purple flowers on tall slender spikes. Spearmint grows quickly, even in poor conditions and the leaves can be harvest within 4-6 weeks. For optimal flavour, it is recommended to harvest the leaves just prior to flowering.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Lamiaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate to Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-10-30°C / 14-86°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun or Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 100cm (3 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 100cm (3 feet)
pH:
5.5-7.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Light
POLLINATION:
Bees.
MATURITY:
80-100 days
GERMINATION RATES:
75-85%
GERMINATION TIME:
7-14 days at temperatures between 13-20°C / 55-70°F
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 12500
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes.
EDIBLE:
Yes.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 5 years.
FACTS ABOUT MENTHA SPICATA (Spearmint)
Mentha spicata has references dating back to the 1st century AD that are attributed to celebrated botanist Pliny the Elder and occur throughout the Bible. By the 14th century the herb had become domesticated across Europe, Africa and Asia with early versions of toothpaste a common purpose.
During the American Revolution, Spearmint became an important commodity as its teas were not subject to tax. The centuries that followed saw Spearmint through its essential oil become a key ingredient in products such as toothpaste, candles and jellies.
As a condiment, it is commonly used to add flavour to salads, beverages, meats, sauces, soups, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.
Spearmint, like many plants in the herb family is considered an essential part of any traditional medicine cupboard. In John Gerard’s Herbal (published in 1597), Spearmint helped with watering eyes, headaches, bee and wasp stings and in treating various cuts and burns.
The Latin name Mentha spicata translates as Mint Bearing a Spike in reference to its sharp, pointy leaves.
For more information regarding the medicinal benefits and uses of Spearmint click here.
