Spearmint

forever frosted leaves
beg for an angel’s breath.
winter hugs their stems,
refreshing them cool.
drops of sky water
soothe muted jade.

collapsed river sticks 
protect a neglected bend.
scarce, lank roots
emanate strong incense.
beneath a waterfall,
icicles rattle caves.

some small flowers
ward off whiteflies.
loamy mud builds
with rich minerals.
curving branches
bite snow drifts.

delicate, netted veins
flush out seasonal murk.
pinecones rest by
Northern life seeds.
toothed edges sharpen
one’s dried kismet.