Pycnanthemum muticum, also known as Clustered Mountain Mint, is a vigerous perennial valued for its aromatic foliage and silvery bracts that surround clusters of tiny pink flowers.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Tolerates a wide range of soils; prefers moist, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Native to eastern North America, including the eastern United States. Thrives in meadows, woodland edges, and moist prairies.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Red Admirals which seek nectar from the small flowers clustered within the bracts.
Bees
- Exceptional at attracting native bumblebees metallic green sweat bees and small carpenter bees throughout its bloom period.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports predatory wasps and syrphid flies helping to control garden pests naturally.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow for mature spread and air circulation.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for naturalized borders, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and as a soft textured filler in native plantings.
Companion Plants
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Complements with similar bloom time and pollinator value while adding height and color contrast.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Orange Coneflower) - Brings bold golden blooms that pair beautifully with the cool tones of mountain mint.
- Eutrochium purpureum (Joe Pye Weed) - Adds vertical interest and thrives in similar moist conditions with towering mauve blooms.
- Solidago rugosa (Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod) - Offers late season nectar and bright yellow color that enhances the mint’s silvery foliage.
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed) - Matches moisture preferences and attracts Monarchs while creating layered diversity in native plantings.