When spearmint plants are growing, they have a distinct appearance that sets them apart from other plants. The leaves of spearmint are bright green in color and have a pointed shape. Unlike the rounded leaves of peppermint, spearmint leaves are slender and elongated. This gives the plant a more delicate and graceful look.
The lavender flower spikes of spearmint are another distinguishing feature. These spikes can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length, adding height and visual interest to the plant. The flowers themselves are small and densely packed, creating a beautiful and fragrant display when in bloom.
In terms of size, spearmint plants can vary depending on their growing conditions. When planted in ideal conditions, spearmint can reach a mature height and width of 12 to 24 inches (31-61 cm). However, it’s important to note that spearmint has a tendency to spread vigorously through underground runners called rhizomes. This means that if left unchecked, spearmint can quickly take over an area and become invasive. Therefore, it’s recommended to plant spearmint in containers or use barriers to control its growth.
In my personal experience, I have grown spearmint in my garden and found it to be a lovely addition. The bright green leaves and lavender flowers added color and texture to the garden, and the fragrance was a delight. However, I did notice that spearmint had a tendency to spread rapidly, so I planted it in a container to prevent it from taking over other plants. This allowed me to enjoy the beauty and benefits of spearmint without worrying about its invasive nature.
To summarize, spearmint has bright green, pointed leaves and lavender flower spikes that can grow up to 4 inches long. It reaches a mature height and width of 12 to 24 inches when grown in ideal conditions. However, its tendency to spread through underground runners makes it important to control its growth. Overall, spearmint is a visually appealing and fragrant plant that can enhance any garden or landscape.
