Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint
Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
Last reviewed: July 2026
Pycnanthemum tenuifolium is a native perennial mint that blooms white flowers from July through September across eastern and central North America. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps to gardens.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, wasps
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Narrow-leaf mountain-mint is a compact native perennial with slender, aromatic foliage and clusters of small white flowers that bloom from midsummer through fall. The plant forms neat clumps and produces a pleasant minty fragrance when brushed against. It thrives in full sun with average moisture and provides long-lasting color in the garden.
Growing Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint
Grow Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This plant is exceptional for pollinators, attracting numerous species of native bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps throughout its extended bloom period. The dense flower clusters provide abundant nectar and pollen from July through September.
Common questions
- When does Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint bloom?
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium blooms from July through September, producing clusters of small white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint?
- This native mint attracts a diverse array of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. The small clustered flowers provide easily accessible nectar sources.
- Where is Pycnanthemum tenuifolium native?
- Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint is native across much of eastern and central North America, from Maine south to Georgia and Alabama, and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does this mountain-mint prefer?
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium thrives in full sun to partial sun and tolerates a wide range of moisture conditions from dry to moderately wet soils, making it very adaptable.
- Is Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint HOA-friendly?
- Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Narrow-leaf Mountain-mint? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz