Exploring diversity and species boundaries of Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum) - Tanner Hamerling

Torrey Botanical Society Spring 2026 Lecture Series "What is a mountain mint? Exploring diversity and species boundaries in a native genus" presented by Tanner Hamerling, graduate student, University of Georgia ~~~~ Mountain mints (Pycnanthemum) are a group of native plants known for supporting pollinators, but it is not always clear where one species ends and another begins. This talk explores how these plants vary across different landscapes and what that variation can tell us about how they are related. Tanner shares observations from field collections and garden studies, along with ongoing work to better understand how different types of mountain mints may mix or remain distinct. Some plants that look like hybrids may actually represent more stable and consistent forms, raising interesting questions about how we define species. These findings have important implications for conservation, restoration, and the use of native plants in landscapes. Overall, this work highlights how studying plants in both wild and cultivated settings can help us better understand and use native plant diversity. ~~~~ 00:00 Introduction 03:57 Lecture 50:55 Q&A ~~~~ For more information on future lectures, field trips, and the Torrey Botanical Society, visit https://www.torreybotanical.org