Fragrant Giant Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)

Fragrant Giant Hyssop

Agastache foeniculum

Agastache foeniculum, commonly called Fragrant Giant Hyssop or Anise Hyssop, is a perennial herb that grows 2 to 4 feet tall. It has aromatic, licorice/anise-scented leaves and produces spikes of lavender to purple flowers from mid to late summer. This species is found in prairies, open deciduous woodlands, and along roadsides, favoring well-drained, sandy to loamy soils. Traditionally, it has been used for medicinal teas and as a culinary herb. In landscaping, it is prized for attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and is often used in perennial borders, herb gardens, and naturalized plantings.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Loam, Sand/Gravel
Moisture	Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches)	45
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	18
Bloom month(s)	June, July, August, September, October
Bloom Color or Type	Violet
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.