Hoary Mountain Mint
Pycnanthemum incanum

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Pycnanthemum incanum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from July 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 dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Dry woods and thickets.

Eastern N. America - New Hampshire to New York, south to New Carolina and Tennessee.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The fresh or dried leaves are brewed into an aromatic mint-like tea.

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

Medicine

Rating: 2

A tea made from the leaves is diaphoretic and carminative. A poultice of the leaves is used in the treatment of headaches. An infusion of the plant is used in the treatment of stomach upsets, fevers, colds and sinus headaches. A warm infusion of the plant has been used to bathe an inflamed penis. The plant is harvested as it comes into flower and can be used fresh or dried.

Analgesic: Relieves pain.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in most soils but prefers a rich loamy soil in full sun or partial shade with plenty of moisture in the growing season.

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; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

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

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Koellia incana.