Named the 2025 Perennial Plant of the Year, this exceptional native produces clusters of tiny white-pink flowers surrounded by striking silvery bracts. In university studies, it attracted more pollinators than any other plant tested. The aromatic foliage releases a delightful minty fragrance when brushed against.

Native range: Eastern United States from Maine to Georgia and west to Texas

Size: 2-4 feet tall, space 2-3 feet apart

Growing conditions: Full sun to partial shade, moist to average well-drained soil

Bloom period: July through September

Wildlife value: Attracts enormous diversity of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects; larval host for Wavy-lined Emerald moth; rated #1 for pollinator diversity in university studies

Garden benefits: Deer resistant, aromatic foliage, excellent cut flower, spreads by rhizomes but easily controlled, drought tolerant once established