Identification

• The pervasive spearmint plant is leafy and has bright green, serrated, triangular-shaped leaves that are 2 to 3 1/2 inches in length. The plant can grow as tall as 40 inches. When rubbed, the spearmint leaves will have a strong, sweet-smelling mint odor.
  
  

Uses

• The spearmint plant is primarily grown for the oil in its leaves and used in spearmint flavored and scented products such as gums and soaps. Spearmint leaves can be used fresh in cooking and baking, but they can also be dried and made into tea. Spearmint is also used in various medical applications and has anti-inflammatory properties. The website Spearmint Plant recommends chewing cleaned leaves for a natural breath freshener.
  
  

Control

• Spearmint, like all members of the mint family, can be invasive if planted in the garden. Mint plants can crowd other plants and even overtake lawns, making it difficult to remove. The best way to contain the plant without it becoming invasive is to plant it in a pot with plenty of drainage, then plant the pot deep in the garden soil.
  
  

Care

• The spearmint plant is so hardy it's considered an invasive species that is difficult to kill in some areas. Caring for the spearmint plant is easy, as the plant normally is grown in partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Spearmint requires nutrient-rich soil with plenty of organic matter. If the plant is grown in a pot separate from the garden, it should be watered daily.