Spearmint and Peppermint 1
by Mellissa Ray
Title
Spearmint and Peppermint 1
Artist
Mellissa Ray
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The wonders of spring are just beginning to unfold. Yesterday, I decided to capture my mint plants shortly after coming back to life after a long cold winter. Although the plants were once separate, they merged together after a year.
The aromatic fragrance of Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is immediately recognized for its crispness, and it is used to flavor food, popular drinks like iced tea, alcoholic beverages and candy. Its aroma is often associated with cleanliness, making it popular for use in mouthwash, shaving creams, soaps and shampoos. Its properties appeal to humans, and its repellent qualities are noxious to insects.
The spearmint plant is native to Europe, but it grows well in most temperate climates. Its common name is related to the pointed shape of its leaves that resemble a spear.
Peppermint (Mentha - piperita)also known as M. balsamea Willd, has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It has a pleasant taste and is a popular flavoring for food and drink. It is also used as a fragrance.
The Latin name for peppermint is Mentha - piperita. It is actually a cross breed between Water Mint and Spearmint.
Peppermint is a perennial plant found in Europe, Asia and North America. Although there are over 25 species of peppermint produced by these areas, the majority of peppermint is produced in the United States.
Uploaded
April 3rd, 2017
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