Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum muticum), also known as Blunt Mountain Mint, is a powerful pollinator magnet known for its dense flower clusters and silver-white bracts that shine like metal in the sunlight. This hardy native perennial thrives in a wide range of soils, from meadows to garden borders, and attracts an impressive diversity of bees and beneficial insects. Its upright clumps create a striking texture and natural beauty in wildlife gardens, prairie plantings, and landscape designs focused on ecological value.
Features
- Silver-white bracts with clusters of small pink-tinted flowers.
- One of the most pollinator-attractive native perennials.
- Thrives in meadows, borders, native gardens, and restoration sites.
- Upright, dense clumps add height and structure to landscapes.
- Highly adaptable to soil types once established.
- Non-GMO Pycnanthemum muticum seed variety.
Specifications
- Common Name: Mountain Mint, Blunt Mountain Mint
- Scientific Name: Pycnanthemum muticum
- Plant Type: Native perennial herb
- USDA Zones: 4–9
- Bloom Color: Silver-white bracts with small soft pink flowers
- Bloom Season: Midsummer to early fall
- Height: 24–36 inches
- Spread: 18–36 inches (clump forming)
- Growth Habit: Upright, spreading clumps
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Preference: Moist to average, well-drained soil
- Water Needs: Moderate; tolerant once established
- Pollinator Friendly: High (supports many species)
- Wildlife Support: Provides nectar for beneficial insects
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- Sow indoors in late winter or direct sow outdoors in fall or early spring.
- Cold stratify for 4–6 weeks for best germination (refrigerate in moist medium).
- Press seeds on the soil surface; do not bury (needs light to germinate).
- Keep soil moist until germination (14–35 days, often slower in cool soil).
- Transplant or thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart.
- Choose full sun for densest growth and highest pollinator support.
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce watering.
- Allow clumps to expand naturally for wildlife and meadow gardens.
- Leave seedheads over winter for insect habitat and visual interest.