Downy Wood Mint, also known as Ohio Horsemint, is a low-growing and well-behaved wild mint native to the eastern half of North America. It is often found growing in dry, open woodlands and meadows, and on thin soils over limestone. It is undemanding and tolerant of drought and will bloom beautifully in full sun to partial shade. The lavender flowers are clustered into whorls around the top half of the central stem, having a stacked appearance which gives this species another one of its common names, Pagoda Plant. Pollinators are crazy about the nectar from the long-blooming flowers. While deer and rabbits tend to avoid its minty flavor, humans may enjoy it as a refreshing tea or a trail nibble.
Sources:
The Midwestern Native Garden by Charlotte Adelman & Bernard L. Schwartz
Missouri Botanical Garden
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Illinois Wildflowers
NC State Extension
