Common Mint, Spearmint, or Peppermint
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Lamiales, Family: Lamiaceae, Genus: Mentha, Species: Mentha spicata · Lamiaceae (Mint or Deadnettle family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Mentha spicata or Mentha x piperita
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Lamiaceae (Mint or Deadnettle family)
Shape
Ovate to lanceolate
Size
Approximately 1 to 2 inches long, which is typical for mint species
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed)
Arrangement
Opposite
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Muted dark green due to drying and preservation, uniform across the upper surface with lighter underparts
Venation Pattern
Pinnate and reticulate, with a prominent midrib and branching side veins
Texture & Surface
Papery and slightly rough due to pressing and drying
Description
An aromatic herbaceous perennial plant with square stems and opposite leaves, often forming dense patches through underground rhizomes
Key Features
Square stems, opposite simple leaves with serrated margins, and a distinct aromatic scent when fresh
Habitat
Damp environments, stream banks, ditches, and cultivated gardens with moist soil
Geographic Range
Native to Europe and Asia, now widely naturalized and cultivated globally
Condition Notes
Fair to Good as a pressed botanical specimen, showing signs of drying, fading, and minor mechanical damage held together by tape
Interesting Facts
Mints have been used for thousands of years in culinary and medicinal traditions, and their strong scent comes from volatile oils like menthol
Medicinal & Uses
Widely used in herbal teas, culinary dishes, essential oils, and traditional remedies for digestion and respiratory relief
Ecological Role
Provides nectar for numerous pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
Similar Species
Other members of the Lamiaceae family such as catmint, bee balm, and various mint hybrids which can be distinguished by specific flower structures and exact leaf proportions
Foraging Tips
Look near water sources or damp shady areas, identify by the characteristic square stem and unmistakable mint fragrance
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans in normal culinary amounts, though high concentrations of essential oils should be used with caution