Each year, the Perennial Plant Association announces its Perennial of the Year based on the following criteria:
-Suitability for a wide range of climate conditions
-Low-maintenance requirements
-Relative pest- and disease-resistance
-Readily available in the year of promotion
-Multiple seasons of ornamental interest

Another characteristic that made Showy Clustered Mountain Mint (also called Blunt Mountain Mint) this year’s selection: it is particularly appealing to pollinators! It is a North American native that bears clusters of tiny pale pink flowers mid-summer through fall surrounded by attractive silvery bracts. Another advantage: the foliage has a minty fragrance unappealing to deer and rabbits.

At maturity, pycnanthemum is 2’ to 3’ in height, with similar spread. It thrives in full sun to light shade. It requires well-drained soil and is drought resistant once established. Pycnanthemum does tend to spread by rhizomes, which makes it a pretty complement weaving through other flowering plants but is easily pulled to control.

Here at the Columbus Park of Roses, you can find Showy Clustered Mountain Mint around the birdbath in the Herb Garden and in the circle bed of the Perennial Garden.