The stalk (from 1 to 2 feet in height) bears branches in pairs; it is square, firm-fibred, and smooth. The color is green, with a purple tone.
The oval leaf, with its tapering, long tip, has a notched margin, is much veined, and is coarse in texture, while its surface is a trifle glossy. It has a strong aromatic flavor to the taste. In color it is green, showing the same red-purple of the stems at the ribs and margins. The leaves are set in pairs that spring at right angles to each other.
The very small tubular corolla is 4-divided, and dark lavender in color; the 5-parted calyx is green. The flowers are set in whorls about the stalk, with a space between each whorl,—beneath each ring of flowers, and supporting it in its place, are seen a pair of little purple-tinted bracts.
According to personal observation, the buds become dark purple in color on the south side of the stalk before those on the north side have lost their green. This is one of the nattiest of the Mints in growth, and is held in especial affection by children.
SPEARMINT: M. virides.
| Peppermint. | Mentha piperita. |
Found along meadow runlets and brooks,—near clear water,—in August.
The branching, leafy stalk, from 12 to 15 inches high, is square, woody-fibred, smooth, and shining. It is a noticeably dark purple-tinted green, sometimes reddish.
The leaf is oval with a broad base and sharp tip, the margin is toothed, its ribs are noticeable, and texture thin, the under surface being slightly rough, although the upper is velvety; its color is green, toned with purple, which shows upon the upper side of the midrib and along the edge. The leaves are set on short purplish stems, and arranged in pairs, which grow at right angles to each other.