Pycnanthemum muticum

Short-Toothed Mountain Mint is a clumping herbaceous perennial with fragrant foliage and flowers. Although it is not picky with soil, it prefers neutral to slightly acidic pH, of which is common in North Carolina. Happiest in moist soil, it can withstand brief periods of dry soil once established, but watering is helpful during prolonged dry spells. When watering, it responds with a sweet minty smell as if to say thank you. Minty leaves discourage rabbits and deer from munching, and they can be used in tea blends. Flowers are spotted and range from pink to white, attracting a variety of flying pollinators to your garden. Short-Toothed Mountain Mint is a host plant for Wavy-lined Emerald larvae. This vigorous plant can spread when it’s happy but can be contained by pruning roots in spring.