Appalachian Mountain Mint Pycnanthemum flexuosum

Mountain mint is a NC native perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family found primarily in the coastal and Piedmont areas of the state. The genus name Pycnanthemum comes from the Greek word  pyknos means dense and anthos which means flower referring to the clustered tufts of white flowers that adorn the plant in the late summer.   The speices name flexuosum is Latin for pliant and is likely in reference to its bendable square stems.

Mountain mint prefers rich loamy moist soil with good drainage in full sun to partial shade. Wihle it grows on a variety of soils types and pH conditions, in its native habitat, it is found growing on alkaline soil.  It will tolerate drier conditions once established.  Unlike other members of the mint family, mountain mint grows slowly by underground rhizomes. It forms a clumping pattern on erect stems with fragrant narrow green foliage 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide.  Plants can be easily divided to propagate and should be every other year to maintain the best appearance.

In late summer it is topped by rounded clusters of white to lavender tubular flowers. The flowers attract pollinators including bees, butterflies and wasps. The dried capsule fruits provide interest in the winter landscape.  It is resistant to browsing by rabbits and deer.

Plant in the middle of a border in a sensory, pollinator, or native garden and enjoy all the wildlife it will bring to the landscape.  They work well along a woodland margin, in a rain garden or to help prevent erosion along a slope.  Or mass plant it in a meadow or other naturalized area or near a pond or streambank.  The light green leaves contrast nicely with purple leaved plants. Because of its strong upright appearance plan to plant shorter plants in front.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.

More information on Pycnanthemum.