Whiteleaf Mountain Mint
Pycnanthemum albescens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pycnanthemum albescens (Whiteleaf Mountain Mint) is a native forb blooming June through August across the southeastern and south-central United States. This aromatic mint relative attracts bees and other pollinators to its small white flower clusters.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, FL, IL and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Whiteleaf Mountain Mint is a hardy Texas native perennial with silvery-white foliage and clusters of small white flowers that bloom throughout summer. This aromatic herb spreads to form attractive colonies and releases a pleasant minty fragrance when brushed against. The plant dies back to the ground in winter and returns each spring with fresh growth.
Growing Whiteleaf Mountain Mint
Grow Whiteleaf Mountain Mint in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Whiteleaf Mountain Mint is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
This plant is exceptionally valuable for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects during its long summer bloom period. The dense flower clusters provide abundant nectar and pollen when many other plants have finished flowering.
Common questions
- When does Whiteleaf Mountain Mint bloom?
- Pycnanthemum albescens blooms from June through August, producing clusters of small white flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
- Where is Whiteleaf Mountain Mint native?
- This species is native to 14 states across the southeastern and south-central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
- What pollinators visit Whiteleaf Mountain Mint?
- Bees are the primary pollinators of Pycnanthemum albescens, though the flowers may also attract other beneficial insects due to their abundant nectar and aromatic qualities.
- What growing conditions does Whiteleaf Mountain Mint prefer?
- This adaptable native mint grows best in full sun with medium moisture levels, though it can tolerate partial sun and varying water conditions from wet to dry soils.
- Is Whiteleaf Mountain Mint HOA-friendly?
- Whiteleaf 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.
Does Whiteleaf Mountain Mint fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.