2025 Perennial Plant of the Year: Pycnanthemum muticum
Article written by: Ella Lindberg, Annual and Perennial Department Manager, CCNP
Clustered Mountain mint: A Pollinator Magnet with a Frosty Summer Glow
Each year, since its introduction in 1990, the Perennial Plant Association selects a perennial that is a standout option, relatively pest- and disease-resistant, suitable for many climates, is generally low-maintenance, provides multiple seasons of interest, and industry growers are working to ensure availability across the US. The selection process includes nomination and a voting process by its members.
This year’s selection, clustered mountain mint, also called blunt mountain mint or short-toothed mountain mint, is a hardy and versatile perennial native to meadows and open woodlands from the eastern U.S. to Texas. While not a true mint (Mentha spp.), it belongs to the same plant family and has similarly fragrant foliage.
This plant is a powerhouse for pollinator gardens, drawing in butterflies, bees, and wasps with its clusters of tiny white to pale pink flowers from July through September. Though the flowers themselves are subtle, they’re surrounded by silvery bracts that create a striking frosted effect in summer, an eye-catching feature that lasts for months. Plus, its aromatic leaves make it unappealing to deer and rabbits, so you shouldn’t have to worry about unwanted nibbling.
Growing two to three feet tall, this mountain mint has sturdy, branching stems that form a dense, weed-suppressing clump. It spreads by underground rhizomes and can be quite vigorous in moist soil, though not as aggressive as true mints.
For best results, plant clustered mountain mint where it can naturalize and weave among other perennials. Its silvery foliage complements a wide range of colors and contrasts beautifully with dark-leaved plants. Great companions include black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia spp.), bee balm (Monarda spp.), blazing star (Liatris spp.), Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium spp.), and grasses like little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum).
Whether you’re looking to support pollinators, add a unique texture to your garden, or fill a space with a resilient, low-maintenance plant, clustered mountain mint is a fantastic choice! Next time you’re shopping for perennials, be sure to ask one of our knowledgeable sales associates to help you locate clustered mountain mint in the perennial yard.
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