| |
Mentha spicata Spearmint (1 Page of 5) The Mentha spicata plant species is found in C. Europe. Naturalized in Britain. It is a member of the Labiatae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Spearmint. Some home gardeners know the variety as M. viridis. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Mentha spicata Common Name: Spearmint Family: Labiatae Author: L. Known Hazards: Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, large quantities of some members of this genus, especially when taken in the form of the extracted essential oil, can cause abortions so some caution is advised. Mature Height: 0.6 Mature Width: 1 Habitat: Roadsides and waste places, usually in damp soils and sunny positions[4, 16, 17, 37].
Cultivation Notes: A very easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils and situations so long as the soil is not too dry[200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. A sunny position is best for production of essential oils, but it also succeeds in partial shade[4]. Prefers partial shade and a slightly acid soil[4, 16].
Often grown as a culinary herb in the herb garden, spearmint is also commercially cultivated for its essential oil, the yields are about 3.5 to 4.5 kilos per tonne of leaves. There are some named varieties[200, 238].
Most mints have fairly aggressive spreading roots and, unless you have the space to let them roam, they need to be restrained by some means such as planting them in containers that are buried in the soil[K].
Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.
The whole plant has a strong spearmint smell.
The flowers are very attractive to bees and butterflies[24]. A good companion plant for growing near cabbages and tomatoes, helping to keep them free of insect pests[14, 20].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].
For further Mentha spicata gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

| |