Pycnanthemum tenuifolium

Narrowleaf Mountain mint

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Narrowleaf Mountain mint is a hardy, aromatic perennial with slender leaves and clusters of white to lavender flowers that attract pollinators and...

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Description:

Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (Narrowleaf Mountain mint) is a perennial herb native to New Jersey. It typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and features slender, lance-shaped leaves that emit a strong, minty aroma when crushed. The plant produces clusters of small, white to pale lavender flowers from mid-summer to early fall, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Narrowleaf Mountain mint thrives in well-drained soils and full to partial sun, making it an excellent choice for wildflower gardens, pollinator habitats, and naturalized landscapes. Known for its aromatic foliage and medicinal properties, it is also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant. When breaking down the scientific name, Genus Pycnanthemum draws from the Greek word pyknos, meaning dense, and anthos meaning flower for its densely packed flowers. This characteristic enables many pollinators to visit at the same time.

*Note: Like many flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae (mint family), this plant is a vigorous and can sometimes grow aggressively.*

Plant Details:

Other Common Names: Slender Mountain mint

Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Summer, Late Summer to Fall

Bloom Colors: White

Deer Resistance: Some

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators, Butterflies

Salt Tolerance: Medium

Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ

Grows in Special Ecoregions: Pinelands

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Clay

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Soil pH: Acidic, Slightly Acidic

Light Needs of Plant

Optimal Light: Full Sun

Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Drought Tolerance: High

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 2 - 3 ft

Spread: 2 - 3 ft

Growth Rate: Fast