Edibles Grow Sheets

Anise Hyssop

• Scientific Name

  Agastache foeniculum
• General Information

  Anise hyssop is a short-lived perennial with the scent of basil and tarragon and a

  It blooms midsummer into fall. Its spiky, blue blooms and bright green leaves tinged with purple make it a great ornamental. It is in the Lamiaceae or mint family and native to North America.

• When to Plant

  Plant in spring after last frost or in early summer.

• Planting

  Plant 18 to 24 inches apart in full sun. It will grow in part shade but will get lanky.

  From seed: Grown easily from seed. To collect seed, allow flowers to dry on plants and bag the flower spikes. 

  Transplants: Easy to move plants and to divide in spring or fall.

  Cuttings: Propagates by cuttings. This is the only way to propagate sterile hybrids like ‘Blue Fortune’, a cross between A. foeniculum and A. rugosa which is Korean hyssop.

• Soil Requirements

  Prefers slightly acidic soil that drains well.

• Water Requirements

  Water regularly after planting. Once established, allow soil to dry out between waterings.

• Fertilizing

  Add compost annually.

• Pollination

  Anise hyssop is pollinated by bees. It attracts many pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

• Harvesting

  Harvest leaves after dew dries but before heat of day and just before the plants begin to flower.

• Storage

  Bundle sprigs and hang upside down to dry in a cool, dark space. When leaves are dry, strip from stem and store in a glass jar.

• Good Varieties for Marin

  Readily available cultivars include ‘Alabaster’ and ‘Black Adder’.

• Helpful Tips

  Can grow to 4 feet tall so works best in middle or back of perennial beds.

• Common Problems

  Susceptible to root rot in wet soils.

• Pests- Diseases & More

  Not usually bothered by pests and diseases.  If aphids, whiteflies, or mites appear, hose off.