Pycnanthemum muticum Clustered Mountain Mint

Pycnanthemum muticum is a 2’-3’ tall, upright plant with silvery green, oval leaves that have sharp tips. Its bloom clusters consist of tiny white to lavender flowers that have a silvery cast. The individual blooms open gradually over a period of six to eight weeks in late summer to early fall. Also called Clustered Mountain Mint, Pycnanthemum muticum has a compact habit that distinguishes this member of the Mountain Mint family. Its fragrant leaves are sometimes rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes. It is a relatively quick spreader with shallow rhizomes that may travel across the soil surface as well as below. It may need to be planted in a large container to control its spread. Clustered Mountain Mint is not as aggressive as Virginia Mountain Mint Very attractive to pollinators, a 2013 study at Penn State Extension Service showed that it was the most popular pollinator species tested, being visited by at least 78 insects in a few minutes time. Pycnanthemum muticum has a native range from Texas to Michigan, east to Maine and south to Georgia. It is naturally found in bogs, savannas, and other low areas, as well as mountain ridges and balds. Clustered Mountain Mint prefers a sunny, wet to moist, well-drained site, but will tolerate part shade, clay soil, heat and drought. It is easy to grow. A Rare Roots' perennial favorite!