Spearmint is also known as garden mint, common mint, lamb mint and mackerel mint. It is native to Europe and southern temperate Asia, and is naturalized in North America, South America, and Africa. 

Spearmint is a perennial herbaceous plant with aromatic foliage. The stem is square-shaped, a defining characteristic of the mint family of herbs. Spearmint produces flowers in slender spikes, each flower pink, or occasionally white in colour. Spearmint flowers in the summer from July to September. The name ''spear'' mint derives from the pointed leaf tips.

Spearmint grows well in nearly all temperate climates. Gardeners often grow it in pots or planters due to its spreading rhizomes.

The leaves lose their aromatic appeal after the plant flowers. It can be dried by cutting just before, or right at peak as the flowers open. Some dispute exists as to what drying method works best. Some prefer different materials such as plastic or cloth, and different lighting conditions such as darkness or sunlight.

Type: Hardy perennial

Hardiness zones: 2-9

Height: 12", 30cm

Location: Sun or part shade