Cluster Mountain Mint
Pycnanthemum muticum

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Pycnanthemum muticum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Sandy soils. Dry open woods in Texas.

Eastern N. America - Maine to Virginia and Florida, west to Pennsylvania and Missouri.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The leaves have a pleasant mint-like aroma and flavour and can be used to make a refreshing tea. They can also be used as a mint substitute in cooking.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in most soils but prefers a rich loamy soil in full sun or partial shade with plenty of moisture in the growing season. Hardy to at least -15°c. The bruised leaves are very aromatic.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If there are sufficient seeds they can be sown in an outdoor seedbed in April. Division in spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Koellia mutica.