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Description
Agastache Rugosa Little Adder, also known as Korean mint, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated in gardens worldwide. This plant produces attractive spikes of lavender-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The flowers have a minty scent and are a favorite of bees and butterflies. Agastache Rugosa Little Adder is prized for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Agastache |
Appearance
Agastache Rugosa Little Adder has a compact, bushy growth habit and reaches a height of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm). The leaves are lance-shaped, gray-green, and slightly hairy. The flowers are tubular and arranged in dense spikes that can grow up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long. The blooms have a lavender-blue color and are 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and attracts pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Water: Agastache Rugosa Little Adder prefers well-draining soil and needs regular watering during the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and blooming. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to leggy growth and decreased flowering.
Soil: Plant Agastache Rugosa Little Adder in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: Agastache Rugosa Little Adder requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate light shade but may not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Agastache Rugosa Little Adder is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. If affected, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Agastache Rugosa Little Adder is native to East Asia and grows in sunny meadows, rocky slopes, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate heat and drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Agastache Rugosa Little Adder deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant due to its minty scent and bitter taste.
Q: Can Agastache Rugosa Little Adder be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Q: Does Agastache Rugosa Little Adder require pruning?
A: Yes, deadhead the spent flowers to promote more blooming and cut back the plant in early spring to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Is Agastache Rugosa Little Adder toxic to pets?
A: No, this plant is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Related Plants
- Agastache Mexicana
- Agastache Foeniculum
- Agastache Cana
- Agastache Aurantiaca
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/agastache-rugosa-little-adder
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hyssop-plant/growing-agastache-hyssop.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/222960/Agastache-rugosa-Little-Adder/Details
