Pycnanthemum virginianum (Virginia Mountain Mint) Unity Grown

Pycnanthemum virginianum, commonly called Virginia mountain mint, is a medium-sized native, perennial wildflower found across much of the eastern United States. Although the moniker 'mountain mint' might imply otherwise, Virginia mountain mint is most commonly found in moist meadows and other lowland environments. Noted for its flowers and mint-like behavior, Pycnanthemum virginianum produces profuse, terminal clusters of small, white flowers dotted with purple from mid summer to early fall. Since the flowers are so densely clustered, Pycnanthemum virginianum can accommodate many pollinators at the same time, and attracts a variety of bees and other pollinators with ease.

Although related to mint, and therefore fragrant and minty, Pycnanthemum virginianum does not spread as aggressively as some relatives, and grows much better in wet soils than many mint relatives, making it idea for rain gardens and shoreline restoration plantings. Virginia mountain mint is resistant to deer and rabbit browsing, and makes an excellent addition to naturalized plantings in a variety of locations, including edible plant gardens.