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Description
Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium, also known as Narrowleaf Mountain Mint, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to North America and can be found growing in the wild in the eastern part of the United States. The plant has an upright habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It produces small white flowers that bloom in mid to late summer and has a pleasant minty aroma.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Pycnanthemum |
| Species | Tenuifolium |
Appearance
Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 3 inches long and 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem and have a dark green color. The plant has a square stem that is covered in fine hairs. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and clustered together in groups at the top of the stem. The plant has a pleasant minty aroma that is released when the leaves are crushed.
Care Guide
Water: Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium prefers moderate moisture levels and needs to be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.Fertilization: The plant does not need to be fertilized, but adding compost or aged manure to the soil in the spring can help improve its growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers a slightly acidic soil.Sunlight: Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites and powdery mildew. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium is native to North America and can be found growing in the wild in the eastern part of the United States. It grows well in meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant is an important source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.Q: Can Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: How often does Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium need to be pruned?
A: The plant does not need to be pruned regularly, but cutting back the stems after flowering can help promote bushier growth.Q: How long does Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium take to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms in mid to late summer, after which it produces seed heads.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium:
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Clustered Mountain Mint)
- Pycnanthemum virginianum (Virginia Mountain Mint)
- Pycnanthemum incanum (Hoary Mountain Mint)
- Pycnanthemum flexuosum (Appalachian Mountain Mint)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium
- University of Illinois Extension: Narrow-Leaved Mountain Mint
- North Carolina State University: Pycnanthemum Tenuifolium
