Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Spearmint on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Spearmint
Mentha spicata, commonly known as spearmint, is a perennial aromatic plant from the Lamiaceae family, valued for its fragrant leaves and refreshing flavor. Its square stems and intense green, lanceolate leaves make it attractive in garden borders, patio pots, or as ground cover in moist areas. It is ideal for urban gardens and herb patches.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It requires direct sunlight or partial shade and consistent watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. It prefers fertile, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. A common mistake is planting it directly in the ground without barriers, as it is very invasive; it's best to grow it in pots or with underground limitations to control its spread.
How to save a dying Spearmint
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, wilting leaves, soft stems. Weak or no scent.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. Prune damaged stems.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging or extreme dryness. Lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. Trim stems and give fresh, well-draining soil.