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Description
Pycnanthemum Verticillatum, also known as Whorled Mountain Mint, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including dry woods, prairies, and meadows. The plant produces whorls of small, light purple flowers that bloom from July to October. The leaves and stems of Pycnanthemum Verticillatum have a strong minty aroma and can be used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Pycnanthemum |
Appearance
Pycnanthemum Verticillatum can grow up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant has square stems that are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged in whorls of 4-6. The upper leaves are smaller than the lower leaves and have a toothed margin. The flowers are small and tubular with light purple petals and white spots. The plant blooms from July to October and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Pycnanthemum Verticillatum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Pycnanthemum Verticillatum does not require fertilization.- Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Add organic matter to improve soil quality.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Pycnanthemum Verticillatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pycnanthemum Verticillatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Pycnanthemum Verticillatum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including dry woods, prairies, and meadows. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought. It is often used in wildflower gardens, butterfly gardens, and prairie restorations.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pycnanthemum Verticillatum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems of the plant can be used to make tea or flavor food.
Q: Does Pycnanthemum Verticillatum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How tall does Pycnanthemum Verticillatum grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: Is Pycnanthemum Verticillatum invasive?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Related Plants
– Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium (Slender Mountain Mint)- Pycnanthemum Muticum (Short-toothed Mountain Mint)- Pycnanthemum Incanum (Hoary Mountain Mint)
References
– “Pycnanthemum Verticillatum.” Illinois Wildflowers, University of Illinois Extension, https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/whorled_mt_mintx.htm.- “Pycnanthemum Verticillatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277470&isprofile=0&basic=whorled%20mountain%20mint.
