What Are the Different Types of Spearmint Plant

Spearmint, also known as Mentha spicata, is a popular herb with a refreshing aroma and taste. It belongs to the mint family and is widely used in culinary and medicinal applications. While spearmint is known for its distinctive flavor, many people are unaware that there are several different types of spearmint plants. In this article, we will explore some of the most common varieties of spearmint and their unique characteristics.

1. Common Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Common spearmint, as the name suggests, is the most widely recognized and cultivated type of spearmint plant. It has a robust growth habit, reaching a height of about two feet when mature. This variety features bright green leaves with serrated edges and produces small white or lilac flowers in late spring or early summer. Common spearmint has a strong, sweet flavor with hints of menthol and is commonly used in cooking, teas, and as a garnish.

2. Moroccan Spearmint (Mentha spicata var. crispa)

Moroccan spearmint, also known as curly mint or Moroccan mint, is a popular variety characterized by its curled and crinkled leaves. This unique appearance sets it apart from other types of spearmint plants. Moroccan spearmint has a slightly milder flavor compared to common spearmint but still retains the refreshing and minty taste. It is often used in Moroccan cuisine, such as mint tea or as a garnish for dishes like couscous or tabbouleh.

3. Scotch Spearmint (Mentha gracilis)

Scotch spearmint is another variety of spearmint plant that is commonly grown for its culinary uses. It has slender stems and narrow leaves, which are often tinged with purple. Scotch spearmint has a slightly sweeter flavor compared to common spearmint and is often used in desserts, beverages, and sauces. Its delicate taste makes it an excellent addition to cocktails like mojitos or juleps.

4. Swiss Mint (Mentha spicata subsp. austriaca)

Swiss mint, also known as Austrian mint, is a variety of spearmint that is native to Central Europe. It is characterized by its broad leaves and strong aroma. Swiss mint has a more intense flavor compared to other types of spearmint, with a higher concentration of essential oils. It is often used in traditional European dishes, such as soups, stews, and sauces, to add a burst of freshness.

5. Pineapple Mint (Mentha suaveolens ‘Variegata’)

Pineapple mint is a unique and visually striking variety of spearmint plant. Its leaves have a variegated pattern of green and white, resembling a pineapple’s skin, hence the name. Pineapple mint has a sweet and fruity flavor with hints of citrus, making it an excellent choice for desserts, fruit salads, and infused water. This type of spearmint is also highly aromatic and can be used as a natural air freshener.

6. Apple Mint (Mentha suaveolens)

Apple mint, also known as woolly mint or round-leafed mint, is a type of spearmint plant with rounded leaves and a fuzzy texture. It has a distinctive apple-like fragrance and a slightly milder flavor compared to common spearmint. Apple mint is often used in culinary applications like salads, sauces, and jellies. It can also be brewed into herbal tea or used as a garnish for cocktails.

7. Chocolate Mint (Mentha x piperita ‘Chocolate’)

Chocolate mint is a hybrid variety of spearmint that combines the refreshing taste of spearmint with a subtle hint of chocolate. It has dark green leaves with a chocolate-like aroma, hence the name. Chocolate mint is often used in desserts, hot beverages, and even as an ingredient in homemade chocolates or ice cream. Its unique flavor profile adds an interesting twist to traditional mint recipes.

In conclusion, spearmint plants offer a wide range of flavors and aromas, each with its own unique characteristics. From the common spearmint with its strong and sweet flavor to the exotic pineapple mint with its fruity taste, there is a type of spearmint to suit every palate. Whether used in cooking, teas, or as a garnish, spearmint plants add freshness and depth to a variety of dishes. So next time you reach for some mint, consider trying out one of these different types of spearmint for a new and exciting flavor experience.