Narrowleaf Mountain Mint

(Pycnanthemum tenuifolium)

Narrowleaf Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum tenuifolium)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pycnanthemum tenuifolium, commonly known as Narrowleaf Mountain Mint, is a perennial herb native to prairies, meadows, and open woodlands across the Central and Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and spreads 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) wide. The plant has a clumping form with numerous upright stems clothed in narrow, linear leaves that emit a faint mint fragrance when crushed. From mid to late summer, it produces dense, rounded clusters of small, white to pale lavender flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.

Narrowleaf Mountain Mint is valued for its ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators, including native bees, bumblebees, and honey bees, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and naturalized areas. It is also used in borders and as a filler in perennial beds due to its fine texture and the contrast it provides. This plant is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in full sun to part shade, preferring well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance and resistant to deer and rabbit browsing. However, it can spread vigorously by rhizomes, so it may require management to keep it within bounds.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Prairies, meadows, and open woodlands across the Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Narrow-Leaf Mountain-Mint, Slender Mountain Mint, Common Horsemint, Virginia Thyme, Smalbladig Präriemynta

Scientific Names: , Pycnanthemum tenuifolium, Pycnanthemum tenuifolium var. lawrencei,

GBIF Accepted Name: Pycnanthemum tenuifolium Schrad.