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This native North American perennial stands 2-4 feet tall with heavily-scented, slightly fuzzy purply-green leaves that emerge early in spring, crowned by dense spikes of lavender to purple flowers from June through September. Hardy in zones 4-8, Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) develops its distinctive anise-like fragrance in both foliage and blooms, making it treasured by both pollinators and herbalists. Ready for harvest in 70-79 days, this drought-tolerant beauty thrives in full sun to partial shade and naturalizes readily through self-seeding and spreading rhizomes.
Full Sun
Moderate
4-9
18in H x 18in W
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Moderate
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The heavily-scented, anise-like fragrance of both leaves and flowers makes this perennial a standout in any garden, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds like few other plants can. Its purply-green foliage emerges among the first in spring, followed by months of showy cylindrical flower spikes that serve triple duty as pollinator magnets, cut flowers, and dried arrangements. Native to the upper Midwest and Great Plains, this hardy plant naturalizes beautifully while tolerating drought, deer, and poor soils with equal grace.
The aromatic leaves excel in herbal teas, either fresh or dried, providing a distinctive anise flavor that soothes respiratory issues and aids digestion. Fresh leaves add a delightful licorice note to salads, while dried leaves enhance baked goods like cookies and muffins with their sweet, aromatic character. The showy flower spikes serve beautifully as cut flowers and maintain their appeal when dried for arrangements or potpourri. Beyond culinary uses, the flowers provide exceptional nectar for bees while the plant serves as a natural mosquito deterrent.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Surface sow several seeds per 2-inch cell, pressing lightly into soil and watering gently to avoid dislodging seeds. Maintain soil temperature between 60-75°F and keep moist but not waterlogged in a cool environment for germination.
Transplant outdoors when plants reach 2-3 inches high and soil is warm and workable, typically 1-2 weeks after the last frost. Space transplants 12 inches apart in well-drained soil. Plants can also be allowed to grow to 4-6 inches before transplanting for more established root systems.
Direct sow seeds 1-2 weeks after the last frost when soil temperature reaches 60-75°F. Seeds may also be sown in late fall for spring germination.
Harvest leaves throughout the growing season once plants are established, picking in the morning after dew has dried for best flavor. Cut flower spikes when blooms are at their peak color and fragrance, typically in mid to late summer. For dried use, hang flower spikes upside down in a well-ventilated area until completely dry, then store in airtight containers.
Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly throughout the growing season to promote continuous blooming and prevent excessive self-seeding. Cut back the entire plant by one-third in midsummer if it becomes leggy or overgrown. Leave some flower spikes in fall to provide seeds for birds and allow natural reseeding.
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“Agastache foeniculum is native to parts of the upper Midwest and Great Plains, naturally occurring from Wisconsin to Ontario west to British Columbia and south to Colorado. Indigenous peoples of North America have long treasured this plant, using it medicinally to treat many ailments. Found growing wild in prairies, dry upland forested areas, plains and fields, this hardy native has made the transition from wildland to garden, where it continues the ancient tradition of serving both beauty and practical purpose.”