Mountain Mint, Appalachian mountainmint

Pycnanthemum flexuosum

Basic Information

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

Genus: pycnanthemum

Plant ID (slug): pycnanthemum-flexuosum

Numeric ID: 21801

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Pycnanthemum flexuosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Maine to Florida, New York, Minnesota, Kansas and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

One report says that the plant is used for food, but gives no details[257].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Diaphoretic Febrifuge Stomachic The leaves and flowering stems are popularly used in the treatment of bowel complaints[207]. A hot infusion of the plant is diaphoretic[207]. The plant is also used internally in the treatment of stomach upsets, fevers, colds and sinus headaches[238, 257]. A poultice of the leaves is used in the treatment of headaches[257]. A warm infusion of the plant has been used to bathe an inflamed penis[257]. The plant is harvested as it comes into flower and can be used fresh or dried.