Short-toothed Mountain Mint
pycnanthemum muticum
Also known as: ["American Pennyroyal","Short-toothed Mint"]
Overview
A hardy perennial herb native to North America, known for its fragrant foliage and small, whitish flowers that attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","deer resistant","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Pycnanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Pycnanthemum muticum |
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":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; a more significant prune in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil is well-aerated; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates heat but benefits from afternoon shade; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Monitor temperature changes; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to allow the plant to harden off for winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop within 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity around cuttings; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant as desired; avoid pruning in late fall or winter.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the onset of active growth.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with additional drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost to enhance fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or cold damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slowed growth, and potential frost damage; roots may become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a protected location; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; plants may become stressed and more susceptible to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPycnanthemum muticum is not toxic to cats. The plant is considered safe for feline consumption in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPycnanthemum muticum is not toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPycnanthemum muticum, commonly known as short-toothed mountain mint, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in herbal teas and has a minty aroma and flavor.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pycnanthemum muticum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in teas or as a culinary herb.
Q: Does Short-toothed Mountain Mint attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should I care for Pycnanthemum muticum?
A: Plant in full sun to partial shade, water moderately, and prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
