Downy wood mint has soft, hairy leaves and whorls of pale lavender flowers along upright stems. It grows naturally in dry prairies, open woodlands, and rocky areas. Its unusual flower arrangement and attractive foliage make it a charming addition to native borders and woodland edges. It is a well-behaved perennial that does not spread aggressively. It tolerates dry conditions once established. You may want to avoid overly wet soils. It works well in naturalistic gardens.