Species

Agastache foeniculumAnise Hyssop

30 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Sunrise Blue Hyssop

Agastache foeniculum 'Sunrise Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Anise Hyssop is an upright perennial known for its aromatic, licorice-scented foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

The leaves have a strong anise or licorice scent and can be used to make herbal teas. It readily self-seeds in the garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant blue flowers that attract pollinators and add color to gardens.

Herb is used in teas, culinary dishes, and medicinal preparations.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting pollinator health.

SpeciesAgastache foeniculumAnise Hyssop

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to low once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds just below the soil surface and water gently.
Keep soil consistently moist until seedlings establish, about 2 weeks.
Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart to allow airflow.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, organic fertilizer during growing season.

Pro Tip

Use a raised bed or sandy soil to improve drainage and prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushier growth
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide mature plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers, as it reduces essential oils
Do not prune in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant herb borderAttractive pollinator garden featureWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea SalviaLavender CoreopsisYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sunrise Blue Hyssop questions

What zones can Sunrise Blue Hyssop grow in?

Sunrise Blue Hyssop is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sunrise Blue Hyssop deer resistant?

Yes — Sunrise Blue Hyssop is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sunrise Blue Hyssop bloom?

Sunrise Blue Hyssop typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sunrise Blue Hyssop need full sun?

Sunrise Blue Hyssop does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sunrise Blue Hyssop drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sunrise Blue Hyssop handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.