Species

Agastache foeniculumAnise Hyssop

30 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Violet Anise Hyssop

Agastache foeniculum 'Violet'

The Story

Plant Bio

An upright, clump-forming perennial of the mint family, noted for its long summer bloom of lavender-blue flower spikes and its anise-scented foliage.

The 'Violet' cultivar features striking purple blooms and is particularly noted for its attractant properties to pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Violet flowers and aromatic foliage add visual and sensory appeal to gardens.

Herb is used in culinary dishes and herbal remedies.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

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, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root development.
Transplant young plants after last frost, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth and new blooms.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vibrant, aromatic foliage and abundant flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Prune spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer
Provide full sun for optimal growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent weak, floppy growth
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

Aromatic herb borderScented perennial bedWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender SalviaYarrow Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Violet Anise Hyssop questions

What zones can Violet Anise Hyssop grow in?

Violet 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 Violet Anise Hyssop deer resistant?

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

When does Violet Anise Hyssop bloom?

Violet 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 Violet Anise Hyssop need full sun?

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

Is Violet Anise Hyssop drought tolerant?

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