Pycnanthemum flexuosum
Britton.
Mountain Mint, Appalachian mountainmint
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Description
Pycnanthemum flexuosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
One report says that the plant is used for food, but gives no details.
Medicinal Uses
Analgesic Diaphoretic Febrifuge Stomachic. The leaves and flowering stems are popularly used in the treatment of bowel complaints. A hot infusion of the plant is diaphoretic. The plant is also used internally in the treatment of stomach upsets, fevers, colds and sinus headaches. A poultice of the leaves is used in the treatment of headaches. A warm infusion of the plant has been used to bathe an inflamed penis. The plant is harvested as it comes into flower and can be used fresh or dried.
Distribution
Eastern N. America - Maine to Florida, New York, Minnesota, Kansas and Texas.
Where It Grows
Northern America United States, Alabama, Florida (north), Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia (southeast),
Cultivation
Succeeds in most soils but prefers a rich loamy soil in full sun or partial shade with plenty of moisture in the growing season. Hardy to at least -15°c. The correct name for this species should be P. tenuifolium. Schrad.. The bruised leaves are very aromatic.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If there are sufficient seeds they can be sown in an outdoor seedbed in April. Division in spring.
