Virginia Mountain Mint Plant Care
Pycnanthemum virginianum (L.) B.L.Rob. & Fernald
Pycnanthemum virginianum, the Virginia or common mountain-mint, is a plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a herbaceous plant with narrow, opposite, simple leaves, on wiry, green stems.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Virginia Mountain Mint?
Virginia Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Pycnanthemum genus. Virginia Mountain Mint is native to the eastern United States and eastern Canada. Virginia Mountain Mint is also known as American Pennyroyal, Wild Mint.
Virginia Mountain Mint displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Virginia Mountain Mint produces clusters of small, tubular white or lavender flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Virginia Mountain Mint?
Pycnanthemum virginianum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Virginia Mountain Mint Need?
Virginia Mountain Mint thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Virginia Mountain Mint in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Virginia Mountain Mint Prefer?
Pycnanthemum virginianum grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Virginia Mountain Mint prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Virginia Mountain Mint?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Virginia Mountain Mint to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Virginia Mountain Mint?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Virginia Mountain Mint?
Virginia Mountain Mint can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Virginia Mountain Mint Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Virginia Mountain Mint?
Virginia Mountain Mint is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Virginia Mountain Mint Need?
Virginia Mountain Mint grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. Native to the eastern United States and eastern Canada, Virginia Mountain Mint is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Virginia Mountain Mint as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Virginia Mountain Mint is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Pycnanthemum genus — compare its care with other Pycnanthemum species on PlantoScan.
Virginia Mountain Mint tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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