Description: Mint can grow 10 to 120 centimeters tall. The leaves are green and grow crosswise on the stem. The leaves are oblong and egg-shaped. There are several varieties of mint, but all mint contains menthol, which gives mint that characteristic cooling, cleansing feeling.

Season

March-September.

Where It Grows

Mint is native to the Mediterranean.  All mints thrive near pools of water, lakes, rivers, and cool moist spots in partial shade. In general, mints tolerate a wide range of conditions, and can also be grown in full sun.

How it Grows

According to eHow, there are over 40 different varieties of the mint plant, with spearmint, peppermint and pennyroyal being the most common. Spearmint grows as high as 2 to 3 feet tall with green, pointed leaves and clusters of small blue or purple flowers. Peppermint grows up to 3 feet tall with spikes of mauve flowers and crinkled, red leaves. Pennyroyal is a smaller plant with pink flowers and oval leaves. Both spearmint and peppermint emit a fresh, sweet aroma, while pennyroyal is very pungent and medicinal.

Did you know?

  • In Central and South America, mint is known as hierbabuena. This means literally, good herb.
  • Mint leaves are often used by campers to keep mosquitoes away.
  • To reduce the effects of caffeine in your favorite tea use fresh mint, Spearmint, or Peppermint sprigs in your teapot with your favorite tea.
  • Ancient Greeks and Romans would scent their baths with mint because of its fresh aroma.
  • The colonists brought mint to the United States for its culinary uses.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size Amount Per 2 tbsp (3.2 g)
Servings Per Container

Amount Per Serving
Calories 2
Calories from Fat0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0 g
0%
Saturated Fat 0 g
0%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
0%
Sodium 1 mg
0%
Total Carbohydrate 0.5g
0%
Dietary Fiber 0.5 g
2%
Sugars 0g
Protein 0.1 g

Vitamin A
2%
Vitamin C
1%
Calcium
0%
Iron
1%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.