Contents
Description
Agastache Mexicana, also known as Mexican giant hyssop, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open areas, dry slopes, and rocky hillsides. The plant has a strong, sweet scent and is widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Agastache |
Appearance
Agastache Mexicana grows up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has long, narrow leaves that are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces tall spikes of tubular flowers in shades of orange, red, and pink from midsummer to early fall. The flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Agastache Mexicana is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Agastache Mexicana prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water deeply once a week during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Agastache Mexicana prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Agastache Mexicana prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant in a location with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Agastache Mexicana is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agastache Mexicana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If necessary, treat with insecticidal soap or a fungicide according to the instructions on the label.
Habitat
Agastache Mexicana is native to arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico and Central America. It grows in open areas, dry slopes, and rocky hillsides, often in association with cacti and other succulents. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought, poor soil, and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Agastache Mexicana deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Agastache Mexicana is generally deer-resistant due to its strong scent and bitter taste.
Q: How often should I prune Agastache Mexicana?
A: Agastache Mexicana does not require regular pruning but can be trimmed back in early spring to promote bushier growth and more blooms.
Q: Can Agastache Mexicana be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Agastache Mexicana can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Can Agastache Mexicana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Agastache Mexicana can be grown in containers if provided with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight. Choose a large pot with drainage holes and water regularly.
Related Plants
– Agastache aurantiaca- Agastache cana- Agastache foeniculum- Agastache rugosa- Agastache rupestris
References
– “Agastache Mexicana” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c881.- “Agastache Mexicana” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/agastache-mexicana.- “Agastache Mexicana” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/herbs/hyssop/growing-mexican-hyssop-plants.htm.
