Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
A native mint with bright green, needle-like aromatic foliage along slender upright stems. Grayish-white flowers appear in dense whorls from the leaf joints, creating a striking effect in late summer and autumn. The minty-scented leaves are attractive when brushed. Exceptionally valuable for late-season pollinators.
Unlike some mountain mints, this species shows no mildew issues and tolerates drier, lean, well-draining soils. Spreads moderately by short stolons, extending roughly ten centimetres per year in each direction. Self-seeds only mildly. The late blooming period provides crucial nectar when many other plants have finished.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun to part shade
Moisture: dry to average
Soil: lean well-draining
Hardiness zone: 3
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 70
Spread (cm): 60
Habit: upright clump
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: July–Oct
Seasonal interest: late summer to fall bloom; exceptional for late pollinators; aromatic foliage
Foliage: bright green
Flower: white
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: bees; butterflies; pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: yes
Habitat: dry borders; pollinator gardens; lean soils; native plantings
Features: needle-like aromatic foliage; late blooming; grayish-white flowers; bee and butterfly magnet; moderate spreading; native
Notes: no mildew issues; tolerates dry lean soils; spreads slowly by stolons; mild self-seeding; native