Pycnanthemum tenuifolium, commonly known as Narrowleaf Mountain Mint, is a native perennial valued for its fine textured fragrant foliage and dense clusters of small white to pale lavender flowers. Blooming from mid to late summer, this mint relative attracts a wide array of pollinators while maintaining a tidy upright form that resists flopping. Its aromatic foliage deters deer, making it a strong addition to ecological gardens and native plantings.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: July to September
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Well drained average to sandy soils
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Highly deer resistant due to pungent foliage oils
Native Status
Native to eastern and central North America, Pycnanthemum tenuifolium is commonly found in prairies, open woods, and dry meadows, playing a vital role in supporting regional pollinators.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts an exceptional variety of native bees including sweat bees (Halictidae), leafcutter bees (Megachilidae), and small carpenter bees.
Butterflies
- Provides abundant nectar for butterflies such as the Eastern Tailed Blue, Monarch and Great Spangled Fritillary.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports parasitic wasps and tachinid flies which help control pest populations in the surrounding landscape.
Other Insects
- Popular with wasps, flies, and beetles offering high ecological value and floral resources mid to late season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart to accommodate airy growth while maximizing floral display density.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent in native meadows, pollinator gardens, herb borders, and erosion control on dry slopes.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Warm season grass adds upright vertical interest and autumn color near the mint’s summer bloom.
- Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm) - Whorled pink bracts and aromatic foliage harmonize with Pycnanthemum’s soft floral form.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Dense finely textured mounds of yellow flowers contrast the pale blooms and silvery foliage.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Bold purple flowers add vibrant color and attract complementary pollinators.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Cascading golden blooms provide seasonal overlap and extend pollinator interest into fall.