Species slender mountain mint

slender mountain mint

Pycnanthemum tenuifolium

Slender mountain mint (Pycnanthemum tenuifolium) is an upright, slightly-weedy, native perennial. Blooming in midsummer, it sport white flowers in whorls along square stems. Its 2” long leaves are narrow and bright green. The plants are drought-tolerant and will spread if not contained. Planted en masse, it creates showstopping groundcover. Its fragrant leaves are enjoyed by hummingbirds and bees. Best planted in well-drained soil in full sun and with moderate water. Slender mountain mint is a great addition to any perennial garden.

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

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Watering slender mountain mint plants should be done approximately 2 to 3 times per week, depending on the environmental conditions. This plant performs best with plenty of moisture, although it is also tolerant of drought. During periods of high heat and low rainfall, you should increase the amount of water given. On the other hand, during cool and wet weather, you may water less frequently. It is important to allow the surface of the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, to reduce the risk of root rot and other fungal or bacterial problems. Soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. During the mid to late summer, fertilization may be beneficial for this plant species. If desired, a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength can be applied at this time.

sunlight

Slender mountain mint thrives in full sunlight, with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight preferred. If the plant is in full sun it should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. If planted in partial sun, it should receive at least 4-5 hours of sunlight each day. However, it is important to note that Pycnanthemum tenuifolium can tolerate some periods of shade, but if given too much shade the plant may become weak and spindly.

pruning

Slender mountain mint can be pruned once a year in late spring after the plants flower. Pruning should be kept to a minimum as this species is a perennial and highly vigorous. Prune to shape the plant and remove dead, dying or non-flowering stems. Avoid cutting green or flowering shoots as this will reduce the plant's natural floering habit. Cut out any flowering stems that cross over or form a tangle, and also prune back unruly or tall stems to keep the plant tidy and encourage side shoots and a dense habit. Make sure not to remove more than a quarter of the live stems to avoid stressing the plant.

Season

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

Pycnanthemum tenuifolium typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map