Pycnanthemum muticum
Overview
Uses: Pollinator gardens, native plant meadows, rain gardens, naturalized plantings, wildlife habitats, herb gardens, and mixed perennial borders.
Benefits: Mountain Mint is one of the most powerful pollinator plants available, attracting an incredible range of bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Its soft silver-green bracts provide a bright, cooling contrast to surrounding foliage, while its aromatic leaves naturally deter deer and some pests. A tough, dependable native perennial, this plant thrives in full sun, handles poor soils, and spreads to create a lush, meadow-like texture.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
Life Cycle: Herbaceous Perennial
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Mature Height: 24" – 36"
Mature Width: 24" – 36"+ (spreads slowly by rhizomes)
Bloom Season: Mid-summer through early fall
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Summary
Few plants match the pollinator power and natural beauty of Mountain Mint—a true workhorse for wildlife-friendly landscapes.
With its soft silver bracts and minty, aromatic foliage, Pycnanthemum muticum brings a refreshing, modern look to sunny beds and native gardens. Its nectar-rich flowers support an astonishing variety of insects, making it one of the top ecological perennials for supporting biodiversity. Even a single plant can attract hundreds of pollinators during peak bloom.
Mountain Mint forms a dense, bushy mound that spreads politely without becoming invasive. Once established, it thrives through heat, humidity, drought, and tough soil conditions—making it a reliable, low-maintenance perennial for both new and experienced gardeners.
Care
Mountain Mint Care
Plant in full sun for the most vigorous growth and highest pollinator activity. It also tolerates light shade but will flower less heavily.
Grow in average, well-drained soil. Mountain Mint is adaptable and handles clay, sandy soils, and lean, dry areas once established. Avoid locations that stay waterlogged for extended periods.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Afterward, Mountain Mint is drought-tolerant and rarely needs supplemental watering.
Fertilizer is optional. If desired, apply a light dose of slow release fertilizer in spring—our slow release fertilizer works well.
Cut back spent stems in late fall or early spring. The plant will expand gradually each year, forming a fuller clump.
Size
What Size is Mountain Mint for Sale Online?
Our Pycnanthemum muticum ships in a greenhouse-grade grow pot, appropriately sized for its container and growth stage. For specific size questions, please contact us.
How Large Does Mountain Mint Grow?
Typically reaches 24" – 36" tall and spreads 24" – 36" wide, slowly expanding by short underground rhizomes.
Additional Information
Common Names of Mountain Mint
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Short-Toothed Mountain Mint
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Clustered Mountain Mint
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Broadleaf Mountain Mint
Is Mountain Mint Good for Pollinators?
It’s one of the best pollinator plants in North America. Bees, wasps, butterflies, beetles, hoverflies, and countless beneficial species visit its blooms throughout summer.
Can Mountain Mint Be Used for Tea?
Yes. While not as strongly flavored as culinary mints, Mountain Mint’s aromatic leaves can be used to make a refreshing herbal tea with subtle minty and earthy notes. Many gardeners harvest small amounts throughout summer for fresh tea, or dry the leaves for winter use. As always, rinse foliage before steeping and avoid overharvesting from young plants.
Does Mountain Mint Spread?
Yes, but politely. It spreads by short rhizomes and gradually forms a wider clump. It is not invasive and is easy to manage with yearly edging or division.
Is Mountain Mint Deer Resistant?
Very. Its fragrant, minty foliage makes it one of the most deer-resistant native perennials you can add to your landscape.
Is Mountain Mint Good for Cut Flowers?
Yes—its silver bracts and textured stems add freshness and contrast to fresh arrangements and native-style bouquets.
How Is Mountain Mint Used in Ecological Landscaping?
Mountain Mint is widely used by ecological gardeners, restoration projects, and conservation groups because of its unmatched pollinator value and ability to thrive in tough conditions. It’s ideal for meadow plantings, rain gardens, and habitat-supporting landscapes.
