perennial

Anise Hyssop

Agastache fennelagastache

The Story

Plant Bio

Agastache fennelagastache is known for its aromatic foliage and tall spikes of flowers that attract pollinators.

This cultivar stands out due to its unique licorice scent and drought resistance.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAgastache fennel is valued for its tall, colorful flower spikes and aromatic foliage, attracting pollinators and adding vibrant color to gardens.
Practical UsesIts fragrant leaves can be used in teas and herbal remedies, and it acts as a natural pest repellent.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist for root development.
  3. Provide full sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in first year.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in spring and midsummer.
  6. Divide mature plants every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth
  • Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Do not fertilize late in the season
  • Refrain from cutting back in late fall to protect from frost

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Aromatic herb borderWildflower meadow accentButterfly-friendly garden

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender SalviaCoreopsisYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Anise Hyssop questions

What zones can Anise Hyssop grow in?

Anise 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 Anise Hyssop deer resistant?

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

When does Anise Hyssop bloom?

Anise 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 Anise Hyssop need full sun?

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

Is Anise Hyssop drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Anise Hyssop with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.