For some, different types of mint are the same. For those familiar with the scene, there are serious variations from mint to mint. We took a closer look and found that the question of mint or peppermint is definitely justified.
What is the difference between mint and peppermint?
The difference between mint and peppermint lies in the aroma and taste: Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) has a peppery aroma, while other types of mint such as Moroccan mint, spearmint, orange mint, chocolate mint and spearmint are milder and are more varied in taste.
A peppermint doesn't make a Hugo
The real peppermint (Mentha x piperita) consistently leads the ranking within the diverse mint genus. The single-variety cultivated plant scores with a peppery aroma that has an incredibly invigorating effect. Peppermint tea is an integral part of everyday life as a thirst quencher. In medicine, the herb works true miracles, relieving many aches and pains, from cold symptoms to stomach pressure and insect bites.
Meanwhile, the hair on the back of the neck of the fans of the new cult drink Hugo stands on end when the bartender mixes in peppermint. Fresh mint is an indispensable ingredient for the cocktail - but please not peppermint. This is where the versatile types and varieties of mint that win the race among Hugo fans come into play:
- Moroccan mint: the aromatic temptation from North Africa
- Spear mint: the classic from England, very British – very cool
- Orange-mint: a fruity-tart seduction
- Chocolate mint: the noble variety with the velvety-sweet aroma
- Spearmint: the variety with the doublemint flavor
Here the difference is on the tongue
The question of mint or peppermint becomes even more relevant if you have tasted the following varieties:
- Strawberry mint: the delicate variety for the balcony, whose taste is reminiscent of ripe strawberries
- Amber mint: it exudes the balsam scent of spicy incense resin
- Caraway mint: it gives savory meat dishes a special flavor
- Thai mint 'Thai Bai Saranae': it is an integral part of Thai cuisine
- Pineapple mint 'Variegata': fruity in taste, an ornament in the bed
This small excerpt from the multi-faceted variety reveals why gourmets attach so much importance to the subtle difference. The wide range of choices awakens a passion for collecting among hobby gardeners. Regardless of the serious differences in aroma and taste; Fortunately, mints pull together in cultivation.
Tips & Tricks
As versatile as peppermint's uses are, the plant is just as tricky when it comes to propagation. Breeding is only possible with cuttings or runners. Over the course of evolution, this type of mint lost the ability to produce germinable seeds.
