Species American mountain mint

American mountain mint

Pycnanthemum virginianum

American mountain mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum) is a attractive plant native to dry areas of the eastern United States. It has a thick, minty aroma and bright white flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. Growing up to 4 feet in height, this easy-to-grow plant is an excellent choice for gardens or along borders. Its foliage exudes a pleasant menthol smell when touched and makes an attractive ground cover with its small, oval serrated leaves. American mountain mint is also known for its medicinal properties and has long been used for treating indigestion, colds, and other ailments.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Humus Rocky

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

American mountain mint should be watered every 1-2 weeks, depending on weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind, and rainfall. In hot, sunny weather, you may need to water once a week; in cooler weather, water every 2 weeks. Whenever you water, make sure to give the soil a thorough soak and allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out before you water again. These plants do not like soggy soil.

sunlight

American mountain mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum) needs full sunlight for best growth. It is best grown in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, with 8 hours being optimal. For best results, all sides of the plant should have access to sunlight, including its leaves. During summer months, when more intense sunlight is present, it is especially important to place the plant in a slightly shaded area so as to prevent heat stress. In winter, the amount of sunlight may decrease slightly, but 6 hours of direct sunlight is still recommended.

pruning

American mountain mint should be pruned at least once a year, typically in early spring before the plant begins to grow in earnest. Pruning should be quite severe, cutting down to 6-8 inches tall. This encourages new growth from the roots, and improves air circulation and disease control. Dead or damaged stems should be removed, as well as any old flowering stems.

Season

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

Pycnanthemum virginianum typically starts flowering in July.

Hardiness Map