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Hairy pagoda. Anne Holmes, artist<\/p><\/div>\n
It is not generally used as food by humans, but is often planted in gardens for its beauty and pleasant aroma. When the leaves are crushed or damaged, they give off a minty scent. It may have some beneficial medicinal properties, given that a related species Blephilia ciliata historically has been used by the Cherokee as a poultice to treat headaches.<\/p>\n
Honey bees, mason bees, miner bees, flies, hoverflies and butterflies all pollinate the flowers of this plant. Many of these pollinators pollinate the hairy wood mint because they get a nectar reward, although some are after the pollen itself. The foliage probably isn\u2019t attractive to mammalian herbivores as a food source.<\/p>\n
Upcoming Events<\/strong>
\nC.P.A. Series: Preventing Mosquito Outbreaks to Protect Pollinators, with Rachel Meriwether<\/strong>
\nMonday, May 13, 6\u20137:30 p.m.<\/strong>
\nWhile male mosquitoes may consume a little nectar and thus help pollinate some plants, their female mates are human bloodsuckers and vectors for diseases! Insecticides and equipment that kill adult mosquitoes kill harmless, beneficial insects (including pollinators) as well. Adult mosquito killers are among a pollinator conservationist\u2019s greatest challenge. Learn ways to keep mosquito populations in check without harming pollinators. Rachel Meriwether is head of the Horticultural Department at Blue Ridge Community College. $25 for non-BGA members; 25 percent off for members<\/p>\n