Hoary Mountain Mint

Pycnanthemum incanum

Physical Characteristics

Pycnanthemum incanum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from July 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New Hampshire to New York, south to New Carolina and Tennessee.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea The fresh or dried leaves are brewed into an aromatic mint-like tea[183].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Carminative Diaphoretic Febrifuge A tea made from the leaves is diaphoretic and carminative[222]. A poultice of the leaves is used in the treatment of headaches[222, 257]. An infusion of the plant is used in the treatment of stomach upsets, fevers, colds and sinus headaches[238]. 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.

Known Hazards

None known