Culture: Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun.
Noteworthy Characteristics: Pycnanthemum virginianum is native to . Its common name of mountain mint is somewhat misleading since the plant typically occurs in moist soils in wet meadows, swamps and along streams and ponds. An erect, many-branched, herbaceous perennial that grows 2-3′ tall and features narrow, toothless, tapering leaves and profuse, somewhat flat-topped, terminal clusters of small, white, 2-lipped flowers which bloom in mid to late summer. All parts of the plant emit a strong, mint-like aroma when crushed. Pycnanthemums have been used in teas.
Genus name comes from Greek pyknos meaning dense and anthos meaning flower for its densely packed flowers. Specific epithet means of Virginia.
Problems: No serious insect or disease problems.
Garden Uses: Interesting plant for the herb garden, border, naturalized area or meadow. Also may be grown in open areas near ponds and streams.
All plant information courtesy of the Missouri Botanical Garden
Mountain Mint attracts many insects to its flowers, including various bees, wasps, flies, small butterflies, and beetles. The leaves are very fragrant; when crushed they have a strong minty odor. The flowers will be white to shades of light purple, some with purple spots. Pycnanthemum means “densely flowered,” an attribute that enables Mountain Mint to accommodate many pollinators at once. The long bloom time, a month or more in July and August, is another reason Mountain Mint is a great choice for those interested in feeding pollinators. The light green foliage of all Mountain Mint species is visually pleasing, too, making it a nice garden choice even when not flowering.
For a shorter species, in medium soils, try Slender Mountain Mint. Other common names are Mountain Thyme, Pennyroyal, and Prairie Hyssop.
Price range: $6.00 through $12.00
