Agastache Urticifolia
Contents
Description
Agastache Urticifolia is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the western United States, particularly in the Great Basin region. The plant is commonly known as Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop or Horse Mint due to its nettle-like leaves and minty aroma.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Agastache |
Appearance
Agastache Urticifolia can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide, with a bushy and upright habit. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and covered with fine hairs, giving them a nettle-like appearance. The flowers are tubular and arranged in dense spikes, ranging from light lavender to purple in color. They bloom from mid-summer to fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden.
Care Guide
Agastache Urticifolia prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires moderate watering, especially during the hot summer months, and benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agastache Urticifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions, which can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Spider mites and aphids may also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Agastache Urticifolia is commonly found in dry and rocky habitats, such as sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodland, and mountain meadows. It is native to the western United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Agastache Urticifolia deer-resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally considered deer-resistant due to its strong minty aroma.
Q: Can Agastache Urticifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should Agastache Urticifolia be fertilized?
A: It should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Agastache Urticifolia be propagated by division?
A: Yes, it can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop)
- Agastache rugosa (Korean Mint)
- Agastache mexicana (Mexican Giant Hyssop)
References
- “Agastache urticifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b352.
- “Agastache urticifolia (Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/agastache-urticifolia-nettleleaf-giant-hyssop.
- “Agastache urticifolia.” USDA NRCS Plant Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=AGUR.
