Mentha spicata, commonly known as spearmint, is a fast-growing, aromatic perennial herb valued for both culinary and ornamental use, forming dense, spreading colonies from creeping underground runners that allow it to fill garden spaces quickly. Mature plants typically reach 18 to 36 inches tall with a spread that can easily extend 24 to 36 inches or more, creating a lush, leafy mass. The bright green, lance-shaped leaves measure about 2 to 4 inches long and ¾ to 1½ inches wide, with sharply serrated edges and a textured, slightly wrinkled surface that releases a sweet, classic mint fragrance when touched. Square stems, characteristic of the mint family, grow upright and may stretch ¼ inch thick near the base. In summer, spearmint produces slender, tapering flower spikes 2 to 6 inches long held above the foliage, covered in tiny tubular blossoms in soft lilac, pink, or pale lavender tones, each individual flower only about ⅛ to ¼ inch long. Leaves and stems remain tender and harvestable through most of the growing season, and when in bloom the plant creates a soft, billowy texture in herb gardens, borders, or containers, combining practical kitchen use with a refreshing visual presence.