Species American mountain mint
white flowers with green leaves and green stems

American mountain mint

Pycnanthemum pilosum

American mountain mint (Pycnanthemum pilosum) is an aromatic species of flowering mint native to the United States. It produces purple-white flowers between July and October and can reach heights up to 3 feet. The plant carries a strong, pungent scent and flavour, thanks to its abundant essential oils. Its leaves are thick and feel slightly serrated to the touch and its flowers are arranged in clusters of two to seven. Mountain mint is edible and is often used as a culinary herb or to make herbal tea. This species prefers full sun and dry, well-drained soils, making it an ideal addition to cottage gardens.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water American mountain mint once every 5-7 days if planted outdoors, and once every 3-4 days when kept in a pot. In periods of high heat and dryness, increase watering frequency to every 5 days. The plant prefers soil that is evenly moist: water should be applied so the soil stays moist, but not soaked. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering frequency.

sunlight

American mountain mint (Pycnanthemum pilosum) is a plant species which typically thrives best in full sunlight. It should be kept in a bright location, ideally getting at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in partial shade, it can tolerate up to 4 hours of sunlight daily. The amount of light the plant receives is especially important during the summer months when the plant is actively growing and blooming.

pruning

When to Prune: Prune American mountain mint (Pycnanthemum pilosum) in the early spring before the plant begins to flower. How Much to Prune: Prune off any dead or damaged growth, as well as any old flower stalks. Pruning back the plant by up to 1-third will encourage it to branch and produce more flowers.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

American mountain mint typically starts flowering in July.

Hardiness Map