Ethnobotany for Pycnanthemum californicum

1. * Mountain (Sierra) Mint – Pycnanthemum californicum
(pick-NAN-the-mum kal-ih-FOR-ni-kum )
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Native to: Mountain ranges & foothills of California. Locally in the San Gabriels; moist sites in
chaparral, oak woodland, and coniferous forests, 1,500-5,500' elevation.
Growth characteristics: herbaceous perennial mature height: 1-3 ft. mature width: spreading
Spreading, herbaceous groundcover that dies back if water-stressed. Leaves shiny green, lance-
shaped, typical for mints. Plant has strong minty scent when crushed.
Blooms/fruits: Blooms in spring or summer. Flowers are small, white with purple spots, in clusters
in the leaf axils. Flowers very typical for Mint family, attract butterflies, hummingbirds.
Uses in the garden: Best used in moist areas of the garden – lawn edges, etc. Makes a surprisingly
hardy ground cover. Good choice under fountains & birdbaths. Would also work will in large
containers. Fragrant foliage useful as a seasoning, for teas, or as a cold remedy (traditional use).
Sensible substitute for: Non-native mints.
Attracts: Excellent butterfly nectar plant.
Requirements:
Element Requirement
Sun Part sun best. Morning sun or dappled sun.
Soil Most local soil types and pH’s.
Water Best in moist soils – Water Zone 2-3 to 3.
Fertilizer Not needed if organic mulch used.
Other Organic leaf mulch best.
Management: Plant will spread, so contain if this is an issue. Easy to pull out unwanted stems.
Cut back to nearly the ground when it becomes raggedy.
Propagation: from seed: easy with fresh seed by cuttings: fairly easy, spring/summer
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 6, 8, 13, 14 4/29/12
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