Plant Profile: Pycnanthemum incanum

Hoary mountain-mint, named for the silvery-white appearance of its upper leaves and the bracts beneath its flower clusters, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This upright, multi-branched perennial typically reaches heights of 2 to 3 feet, characterized by its square stems, a common trait among mint family members. It serves as an effective erosion control plant, is drought-resistant, and thrives in arid soil conditions. Its ability to root from stems and self-seed allows it to naturalize in various landscapes, so it's important to be mindful of its potential to become weedy.

As an herbaceous perennial, Hoary Mountain-mint can grow up to 5 feet tall, with stems densely covered in short white hairs. The leaves are arranged oppositely, featuring a serrated edge and a white upper surface. The plant produces white or lilac flowers adorned with purple spots, which begin to bloom in mid-summer and persist into early fall.

Fire Risk: This species has a medium flammability rating.

Seasons of Interest:
- Bloom: Summer, Fall
- Fruit/Nut/Seed: Fall

For additional details on Pycnanthemum, please refer to further resources.