Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
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Tried and True Recommended by 3 Professionals
Species Native to Missouri
Common Name: slender mountain mint
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Lamiaceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Native Range: Eastern United States
Garden Location: Christopher Biraben Butterfly Meadow, Suzanne Stagg Wright Rock Garden
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Spread: 2 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: July to September
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Description: White
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Dry to medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Leaves: Fragrant
Tolerates: Clay Soil, Dry Soil, Shallow, Rocky Soil, Drought
Uses: Cut Flower, Erosion Control, Rain Garden, Will Naturalize

Culture

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. A vigorous and sometimes aggressive grower.

Noteworthy Characteristics

The common name of mountain mint for this mint family member is somewhat misleading since the plant typically grows in the wild in dry, open, rocky woods, dry prairies and fields, along roadsides, along streams and in open wet thickets. An erect, many-branched, herbaceous perennial that grows 2-3' tall and features extremely narrow, almost needle-like leaves and profuse terminal clusters of small, white 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. A Missouri native plant that is found throughout the state.

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.

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