A Giant Among Hyssops, Agastache Foeniculum

A pollinator magnet!

A wonder in the pollinator garden—a star, really, ready to entice butterflies and bees. As I walk by, I can hear all the buzz! Do you grow giant hyssop?

Have you ever wondered why pollen is spelled with an “E” but pollinators is spelled with “I.” I have, but I don’t have an answer for you.

Common name: Giant Anise Hyssop 

Latin Name: Agastache foeniculum 

Native To: much of North America 

Typically found in prairies, plains, and fields, this upright, clump-forming perennial is in the mint family. It works well in the cultivated pollinator habitat—blooms from mid-to late-summer with lavender to purple flowers in terminal spikes, with anise-scented foliage.  An excellent, nectar-rich, bee plant, historically planted en masse to support apiaries. 

Hardiness Zone: 4 to 10 

Bloom Time: July to September 

Size: 2 to 4 feet tall by 1.5 to 3 feet wide 

Sun: full sun, part shade; best in full sun 

Water: dry, average, well-drained soil 

Pollinator Plant Partners :

Butterfly Larval Host: no for butterflies

Nectar Value: butterflies, hummingbirds, short- and long-tongued bees