Torrey's Mountain Mint

Pycnanthemum torreyi

Torrey's Mountain Mint is one of the less commonly cultivated Pycnanthemum species. native to a relatively narrow range in the northeastern and mid-Atlantic states, it's a genuine rarity in the nursery trade, which is exactly why Hill House carries it. The plant is similar to other mountain mints in fragrance and basic structure, with lance-shaped leaves, strongly fragrant when touched, and flat-topped clusters of small white flowers in midsummer. The key distinction is its regional genetic heritage. growing Torrey's Mountain Mint preserves and promotes mid-Atlantic biodiversity in the home garden. Limited quantities available (as noted). Like all mountain mints, the pollinator performance in summer is exceptional, and the mint fragrance deters deer so reliably that it can be used as a deer-repellent border planting around more vulnerable plants. Moist, sunny conditions in a meadow or rain garden edge are ideal. The plant spreads at a moderate rate and rewards regular division to maintain a tidy, compact colony.