Mentha spicata is a tall herb with a minty scent that permeates the garden when the foliage is brushed against. The spikes of small pale purple flowers grow up to 10cm tall and are loved by pollinators - you’ll find plenty of bees and butterflies attracted to your herb garden. Also known as Common Mint or Garden Mint, this herb is an ideal accompaniment to lamb, potato and pea dishes. It can also be infused into a herbal tea or utilised as a garnish for desserts and drinks. Spearmint is a vigorous grower and can get invasive when left to its own devices. Many gardeners choose to grow it in pots and hanging baskets to limit its spread. Please Note: When purchasing plants please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only - The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Characteristics: A fast growing perennial with tall stems that produce green textured leaves and spires of tiny purple flowers in summer. Aromatic with a pleasant minty fragrance. Growth and Spread: Ultimate height of up to 1m and spread of up to 1.5m. Care and Maintenance: Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist but well drained soil. Prune back when flowering has finished and mulch to protect roots over winter. Period of Interest: Stems and foliage begin to appear in spring with the dainty purple flowers arriving in summer. The plant will die back below ground level in autumn and will bloom back to life in spring. Top Tip: Spearmint leaves can be frozen to store for future use but the best flavour comes from leaves that are freshly harvested.