Mentha

Opposite, toothed, scented leaves. Flowers in whorls over the summer. Most preferring a damp soil and often having spreading habits, so appropriate siting is very important. Particularly in smaller gardens, growing in pots, trough or a container with a couple of holes in. A very important herb, found across the Mediterranean. At least over 1000 varieties are available. Interestingly the common name of spearmint, is maybe a corruption of sprire mint, referring to the flower spikes resembling a church spire.