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Description
Agastache Nepetoides, commonly known as the giant hyssop, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to North America and is found in many regions, including the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada. The plant grows up to three feet tall and has a spread of 18-24 inches. It produces spikes of purple and white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The plant is known for its strong, minty fragrance and is a popular choice for gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Agastache |
Appearance
Agastache Nepetoides has a bushy growth habit and produces multiple stems from the base. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green, and have serrated edges. The plant produces spikes of tubular flowers that are arranged in whorls and bloom in shades of purple and white. The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making this plant a great addition to a pollinator garden. The plant has a strong, minty fragrance, which is released when touched or crushed.
Care Guide
Agastache Nepetoides is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not like to sit in water. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers soil that is slightly acidic and well-draining. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may not be as prolific.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agastache Nepetoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Agastache Nepetoides is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada. The plant prefers to grow in full sun to part shade and can be found in meadows, prairies, and along the edges of forests. It is a popular choice for gardens and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Agastache Nepetoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Agastache Nepetoides can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.Q: How often should I fertilize Agastache Nepetoides?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Does Agastache Nepetoides attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces attractive flowers that are a great source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: Can Agastache Nepetoides tolerate shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate some shade, but it prefers full sun to part shade.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Agastache foeniculum (anise hyssop)- Agastache rugosa (Korean mint)- Agastache mexicana (Mexican giant hyssop)- Agastache cana (Texas hummingbird mint)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Agastache nepetoides. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c244- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Agastache nepetoides. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/agastache-nepetoides/- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Plants Profile for Agastache nepetoides. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=AGNE2
