Also known as Blue Giant Hyssop, Lavender Hyssop, Fragrant Giant Hyssop
Color of flowers: blue, purple Blooms: July - August Ecological value: attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; deemed a species of special value to native bees, bumble bees, and honey bees by the Pollinator Program at the Xerces Society
Native habitat: dry, open, semi-shaded area; dry upland forests Sunlight: full sun to partial shade Soil moisture level: dry; will tolerate moist soil as long as it is well-draining Adapted to the following soil types: sandy, well-drained soils; rich or poor in quality Drought tolerant: yes, once established Soil pH range of tolerance: 6.0-7.0
Where/how to plant: middle or back of perennial borders, native wildflower gardens; can be grown in masses or drifts of in small groups; grows well with brown-eyed susan, goldenrod, purple coneflower, false sunflower -We recommend that you plant this species in its native habitat, or conditions that mimic its native habitat Management: do not plant near black walnut trees; deadhead spent flowers to promote additional bloom; may develop root rot in wet soils
Notes: smell like anise when bruised
References “Agastache Foeniculum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AGFO.
Mahr, Susan. “Anise Hyssop, Agastache Foeniculum.” Master Gardener Program, University of Wisconsin- Madison, 19 May 2020, wimastergardener.org/article/anise-hyssop-agastache-foeniculum/.
Schiller, Nan. “How to Grow Anise Hyssop.” Gardener's Path, 19 July 2020, gardenerspath.com/plants/flowers/anise-hyssop/