Contents
Description
Agastache is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to North America and Mexico. This plant is also known as hyssop or hummingbird mint because it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with its sweet nectar. The plant has a unique aroma and is often used in teas, potpourris, and as a medicinal herb. Agastache is a hardy perennial plant that is easy to grow and care for. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and has a spread of up to 2 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Agastache |
Appearance
Agastache has beautiful tubular flowers that come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, blue, and white. The flowers grow on long spikes that rise above the foliage. The leaves are green and have a minty aroma. The plant has a bushy appearance and grows in clumps. Agastache blooms from mid-summer to early fall and is a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Agastache is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Agastache prefers well-drained soil and needs moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Agastache does not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring or use a liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
- Soil: Agastache grows well in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Agastache prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Agastache is hardy in zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agastache is a relatively pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these issues:
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew can be prevented by keeping the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoiding overhead watering. If you notice powdery mildew on your plant, you can treat it with a fungicide or by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and baking soda.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and misting the leaves with water. If you notice spider mites on your plant, you can treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Agastache is native to North America and Mexico and grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Agastache in a container?
A: Yes, Agastache can be grown in a container. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Agastache?
A: Agastache does not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring or use a liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
Q: Does Agastache require pruning?
A: Agastache does not require pruning but can be cut back in the fall after it has finished blooming to encourage new growth in the spring.
Q: Can Agastache be used in cooking?
A: Yes, Agastache leaves can be used in cooking and have a minty flavor. They can be used to flavor teas, salads, and meat dishes.
Related Plants
- Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
- Korean Mint (Agastache rugosa)
- Giant Hyssop (Agastache mexicana)
References
- “Agastache.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282211. Accessed 22 Oct. 2021.
- “Agastache.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/agastache-plant-profile-4177810. Accessed 22 Oct. 2021.
- “Agastache.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/242815/i-agastache-i/Details. Accessed 22 Oct. 2021.
