Overview
Pycnanthemum verticillatum (Michx.) Pers. var. pilosum (Nutt.) Cooperrider, commonly known as Whorled Mountainmint, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to eastern North America and grows in sunny areas such as fields, open woods, and along roadsides.
Appearance
The plant has a bushy appearance and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has square stems that are hairy and glandular with whorls of leaves every 2-3 inches. The leaves are lanceolate, pointed, and toothed with a rough texture. The tiny, white, tubular flowers bloom from mid to late summer in dense heads that are about 1 inch wide.
Uses
The plant has a strong minty scent, and the leaves and stems can be used to make a refreshing tea. Historically, it has been used medicinally for indigestion, common cold and flu symptoms, and headaches. The plant is also used as a natural insecticide, repelling mosquitoes and other insects. The leaves and flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a suitable garden plant.
Cultivation
Whorled Mountainmint is a relatively low-maintenance plant, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant and can survive in a variety of soils, including rocky or sandy areas. It can be propagated through seed or division in the spring or fall. The plant may spread through underground rhizomes, making it suitable for naturalistic plantings.
Overall, Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum is a versatile and attractive plant with useful medicinal and culinary properties. Its hardiness and tolerance to a variety of growing conditions make it a popular choice for bee and butterfly gardens, as well as herb gardens and wildflower meadows.Light Requirements
Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. This plant grows best in direct sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade. It is recommended to provide a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day for the optimal growth of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum is between 60°F and 80°F. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it is best suited to grow in moderate temperatures. During the winter season, this plant can survive frost and freezing temperatures. However, in extreme heat, this plant may require additional watering to prevent drying out.
Soil Requirements
Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum grows well in well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay. To achieve optimal growth, it is recommended to add organic matter to the soil to improve the texture and ensure adequate nutrient availability.
Cultivation Methods
Pycnanthemum verticillatum (Michx.) Pers. var. pilosum (Nutt.) Cooperrider, commonly called Whorled Mountain Mint, is a hardy perennial plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide. Plant the Whorled Mountain Mint in the spring or fall, and space them 1-2 feet apart.Watering Needs
Whorled Mountain Mint prefers moist but well-drained soil. Watering once or twice a week during dry periods is typically sufficient. Be careful not to over-water, which can cause root rot.Fertilization
Whorled Mountain Mint is a light feeder and usually does not require regular fertilization. However, if you notice slow growth or yellowing leaves, you can provide a balanced fertilizer in early spring.Pruning
Pruning Whorled Mountain Mint is not necessary, as it generally maintains its shape and size without intervention. However, if you want to control the spreading, you can prune it back in the early spring before new growth appears. This will also encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Cut the stems back to about 6 inches from the ground.Propagation of Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum
Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one will depend on the availability of resources and the desired outcome.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common propagation method for Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant in the fall and sown in a seed tray in the spring. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs, usually within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a height of six inches, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Propagation by Cuttings
Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum can also be propagated through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in mid-summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a six-inch section of the plant just below the leaf node, and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and place it in moist soil. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have developed, which can take up to two months. Once rooted, the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the rootball into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the root and several stems. Replant the sections in their permanent location, making sure to keep the soil moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Like most plants, the Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum can be vulnerable to certain diseases. Some common diseases that affect this plant are rust, powdery mildew, and root rot. To manage these diseases, prevention is key. It is important to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained by watering it properly and ensuring that it has a nutrient-rich soil. It is also beneficial to remove any infected or dead parts of the plant immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. In case of severe infection, fungicides can be used but it is important to follow the instructions carefully.
Pest Management
Pest infestations can greatly affect the growth and health of the Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include spider mites, thrips, and aphids. To prevent pest problems, regular inspection is necessary to detect early signs of pest infestation. An infestation can be controlled by removing the infected parts of the plant or by using insecticides. It is important to use insecticides that specifically target the pests to avoid harming beneficial insects. Alternatively, natural pest control methods can also be adopted, such as introducing predatory insects like ladybugs. It is recommended to consult a professional gardener or agriculturist for advice on the effective pest control method to use.
