Blephilia ciliata (Downy Wood Mint) Unity Grown

Blephilia ciliata, commonly referred to as downy wood mint, is an upright, clump-forming woodland native that grows 1-2 feet tall and wide. From late spring to mid summer, downy wood mint produces multiple clusters of small blue-purple flowers, which are especially attractive to bumblebees and honeybees, among other pollinators.

As a member of the mint family, Blephilia ciliata can be used as a mint substitute - in both culinary uses and in the landscape. Leaves and tissues have a minty, herbal fragrance, and as a far less aggressive spreader than a true mint, Blephilia ciliata is a beneficial addition to any space for appearance, smell, and wildlife value. Downy wood mint tolerates both full and partial sun, as well as drier soils, and is a good fit for many garden types and areas through multiple seasons; although flowers die back in the cooler months, small leaves and shoots close to the ground retain their green color through the winter.