Mountain Mint
pycnanthemum tenuifolium
Also known as: ["Thinleaf Mountain Mint","Narrowleaf Mountain Mint"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to North America, known for its aromatic foliage and small, whitish flowers that attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Pycnanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Pycnanthemum tenuifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; more intensive pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Avoid heavy clay soils; test pH before planting; amend soil annually for container-grown plants.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none required in winter
Apply fertilizer in the morning; water lightly before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dry weather; remove dead or diseased parts first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or browning in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to disease in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective mulch layer; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow under prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPycnanthemum tenuifolium is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a risk of poisoning when ingested by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPycnanthemum tenuifolium is not toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPycnanthemum tenuifolium, commonly known as slender mountainmint, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications and as a medicinal herb due to its aromatic properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pycnanthemum tenuifolium edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in teas or as a culinary herb.
Q: Does Mountain Mint attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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