How to Spot
Pycnanthemums
Pycnanthemum muticum
Flower Clusters with Bracts
What we see as flowerheads are actually compound structures. Tight buttons composed of buds form the center, then tiny florets emerge from the buds over a period of weeks. Each floret provides a steady supply of nectar to the pollinators.
Pale Tips
What we see as petals are really modified leaves with a silvery coating to help distant beneficials find the flower clusters. These leaves can be quite pale when they emerge together from the tips.
Seed Heads
Gray to brown seed heads form in late autumn and survive into winter.
Sun to Light Shade
Pycnanthemum gives its best displays in full sun, although it can handle light shade. A native of Eastern North America, P. muticum is associated with the rolling hills of Appalachia. It can be found along the coastal plains of the Eastern Seaboard as well as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys.
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Leaves develop a dark tint as they age on whip-like stems. Most of the deep color sits at the base while the silver tips lie over the top.
Florets are larger and densely packed in the center button.
Opening slowly over time, the florets attract beneficials for weeks.
