How can I separate what kind of mint plant I have ?
Identifying the specific case of mint plant can be a bit tricky , as there are many different salmagundi and they can often search quite similar . However , there are a few cardinal characteristics to look for that can help you determine what sort of heap plant you have .
1 . Leaf Shape : One of the easy ways to identify a mickle flora is by examining the human body of its leave . Most sight plants have oval - shaped leaves with a slightly notched or serrated edge . However , the size and chassis of the leaves can diverge slightly between unlike mint varieties . For exercise , Mentha spicata ( Mentha spicata ) has long , pointed leaves , while peppermint ( Mentha x piperita ) has broader , more rounded leaves .
2 . Leaf Color : Mint plants typically have vivacious green leave of absence , but the shade of green can vary between different diverseness . Mentha piperita , for example , often has darker greenish leaves compared to other mint flora . Some mint varieties , like Malus pumila mint ( Mentha suaveolens ) , have leaves with a slightly silverish or grayish hue .
3 . Leaf Texture : Another characteristic to weigh when identifying a mass industrial plant is the grain of its leaves . Most mint have slightly bleary or hirsute leave , which can feel velvety to the touch . However , the stage of softness can depart between dissimilar varieties . For instance , catmint ( Nepeta cataria ) , which is not a genuine pot but is often call catmint , has very flaccid , downlike leaf .
4 . Plant Height and Growth Habit : tidy sum plants are in general low - growing and spread rapidly . However , the height and maturation substance abuse can differ between motley . Eucalyptus amygdalina , for instance , incline to produce taller and more upright , reaching heights of 30 to 90 cm , while spearmint usually stays shortsighted and bushier , reaching heights of 30 to 60 curium . Some plenty , like pennyroyal , have a prostrate or grovel growth habit , creating a Master of Arts in Teaching - like appearance .
5 . Flower Appearance : good deal plants produce small , cannular flowers that are usually white , pink , or purpleness in color . The flower shape and color can vary slightly between unlike peck species . For illustration , peppermint typically has purple flowers , while Mentha spicata has pale pink to lilac - colored flowers . Pay care to the flower colour and shape to aid narrow down down the recognition of your mint flora .
6 . scent : Fragrance is another clue that can facilitate you key a mickle plant . Rubbing or crushing the leafage will unloose the distinct minty aroma that is characteristic of this plant phratry . However , keep in idea that some pot varieties , like pennyroyal , have a slightly different aroma compared to the common culinary mints like peppermint or spearmint .
If you are still unsure about the exact type of mint plant you have , you may consider look for expert supporter , such as consulting a local plantsman or botanist . They can provide you with more specific data based on the region you are in and any extra characteristics you may cater . to boot , researching mint plant varieties and compare them to your plant ’s feature can also be helpful in designation .
Identifying the specific type of mint plant can be challenging due to the similarities between different varieties . However , by carefully examining the leaf shape , color , texture , plant life height , prime visual aspect , and perfume , you’re able to start to narrow down the theory . If postulate , consult an expert or conduct further research to corroborate the recognition of your mint plant .
Caroline Bates
