Pycnanthemum muticum

Short-toothed mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum) is perhaps the single best nectar source of all perennials for native butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. You can literally hear the plants buzzing with activity as you approach. This uncommon, non-spreading to slowly spreading mint has broad lustrous aromatic leaves with showy silvery flower bracts and pinkish flowers. Native to eastern North America, it is happiest at the wood’s edge, so it is excellent for a naturalized border or woodland garden. But it can also grow in full sun. The aromatic leaves are loaded with pulegone, the same insect repellent found in pennyroyal. Rub it on your skin to repel mosquitoes!