piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a herb in the mint family. It is a sterile hybrid resulting from a cross between watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). Because its seeds are usually infertile, peppermint is typically propagated vegetatively.

The specific epithet piperita is derived from Latin piper, meaning pepper, a reference to its peppery, menthol-rich aroma. Peppermint is native to Europe and western Asia but is now cultivated and naturalized in temperate regions around the world.

Mentha piperita is a perennial herb with creeping rhizomes and opposite, serrated leaves. It commonly reaches about 0.3 to 0.9 meters in height. The plant produces small flowers and yields an essential oil that is high in menthol, with menthone and other constituents contributing to its characteristic cooling flavor and aroma.

Uses for peppermint are widespread. It is a major flavoring agent in foods and beverages, confectionery, and toothpaste, and is employed in medicinal and aromatherapeutic contexts. In cultivation, peppermint requires moist, well-drained soil and regular moisture. It spreads aggressively, so it is frequently grown in containers or with root barriers to limit its spread.