Mountain Mint, Whorled mountainmint
Pycnanthemum pilosum

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Pycnanthemum pilosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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): 1.5

Where it is found

Dry to moist woods, thickets and clearings.

Eastern N. America - Ontario and Michigan south to Tennessee, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Flower buds and leaves - raw or cooked. A nice addition to salads or used as a condiment. The fresh or dried leaves are brewed into a delicious mint-like tea.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

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

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

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. A good butterfly plant.

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: 4-8

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 pilosa.