Mint Species

Mint species

mint, (genus Mentha), genus of 25 species of fragrant herbs of the mint family (Lamiaceae).

What are the two main varieties of mint?

The most common, basic varieties of cultivated mint are peppermint (Mentha x piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata).

What species is regular mint?

The most common and popular mints for commercial cultivation are peppermint (Mentha × piperita), native spearmint (Mentha spicata), Scotch spearmint (Mentha x gracilis), and cornmint (Mentha arvensis); also (more recently) apple mint (Mentha suaveolens).

What kind of mint is not edible?

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) Pennyroyal looks very similar to peppermint. However, caution is advised as the pennyroyal is poisonous.

What is the rarest mint plant?

Monstera Deliciosa Mint variegated houseplants are very rare and sought after because of their very unique light green variegations.

What is the best tasting mint?

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita 'Mitcham'). The best-tasting peppermint is found under various names throughout the country: 'Mitcham', black-stemmed, 'Blue Balsam', and even chocolate mint. It is highly mentholated, almost hot, and full of flavor.

Which mint has best taste?

Mentha spicata: Spearmint is the quintessential mint and can be found growing around the world. The leaf flavour is warm and sweet with light menthol notes. Great with potatoes and mint sauces.

What is the most popular mint?

The most famous mint candy brands include:

Altoids.
Certs.
Lifesavers.
Ice Breakers.
Mentos.
Tic Tac.
Breathsavers.
Ricola.

What is the sweetest mint?

On the savory side, spearmint is usually the mint of choice, however when it comes to sweet, peppermint is the herb of choice as it pairs well with chocolate and citrus flavors.

What is the hardiest mint plant?

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a great variety for hot and cold drinks, especially mojitos. Peppermint (M. piperita) is one of the hardiest varieties and is great for cooking.

What is the strongest smelling mint?

Mentha graveolens|strong-smelling mint/RHS Gardening.

What type of mint is sold in grocery stores?

Of the two, spearmint is the one almost always sold in grocery stores and markets. So when a recipe calls for mint, it's generally spearmint, recognizable for its light-green, spear-shaped leaves and that classic sweet mint flavor. Spearmint is also commonly used to make gum and candy.

Is all wild mint edible?

Wild Mint is edible and is a useful foraging food for humans. The compound responsible for it's distinct smell and taste (Menthol) is used in many products. Because mint can flower throughout the growing season, it is important food for pollinators.

What mint is native to North America?

Mentha canadensis is a species of mint native to North America (from the Northwest Territories to central Mexico) and the eastern part of Asia (from Siberia to Java).

Why is mint not healthy?

Like many herbs, mint can adversely affect some people. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should not use mint in an attempt to soothe digestive issues. According to a 2019 review , mint commonly acts as a trigger for GERD symptoms. Taking peppermint oil in large doses can be toxic .

Is there a poisonous mint plant?

Perilla mint has a shallow taproot and fibrous roots. Perilla mint causes more cattle deaths in Tennessee than any other toxic plant. Perilla is very poisonous to cattle and other ruminants, as well as horses. All plant parts are toxic, especially the flowering structures.

Is it OK to chew mint leaves?

Mint leaves are generally safe for consumption, however people with gastroesophageal reflux disease should minimize the consumption as it may cause stomach irritation. Menthol oil is contraindicated in children to use topically as it may cause breathing difficulties.

Where should you not plant mint?

Mint plants want at least partial shade. When planted in the direct sun mint will survive but not thrive and will produce smaller leaves.

Can a mint plant live forever?

However, mint doesn't live forever in water. Eventually the leaves will yellow and the plant will stop growing. However, keeping a few water-rooted stems in a jar above the sink means you'll be able to make the occasional harvest.

What is the easiest mint to grow?

As the name suggests, banana mint (Mentha arvensis 'Banana') is a low-growing variety with a scent and taste similar to bananas. Like all mints, it's easy to grow and being perennial, will return year after year.