Pycnanthemum virginianum - Virginia Mountain Mint

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 3-8, 24-36" x 12-18", full sun to part shade, tiny white flowers on branching structure in mid to late summer. Likes moist to wet soils, but is tolerant of drying out here and there. May prefer calcareous soil.

Common names: Virginia Mountain Mint

Family: Lamiaceae

Origin/Distribution: Maine to North Dakota and south to Georgia and Oklahoma; these plants were grown from seed collected in New England; P. virginianum is native to Maine.

Habitat: open stream banks, damp fields, wet margins, sunny open areas with enough moisture

More: The foliage has a strong mint scent when crushed or run through your fingers. This plant is a strong grower but can be slowed down if grown in drier soils, or other less-than-optimal conditions, like a wood's edge. Very attractive to bees, butterflies, small beetles, wasps, and flies. Has a long bloom time. Makes a good cut flower. The leaves have been used medicinally and the flower buds can be used for flavoring.

Source: Van Berkum

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons; second image of senescing fall foliage is courtesy of Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens