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Aromatic and edible perennial
Lamiaceae
Aromatic perennials for pollinators
Anise Hyssop – Agastache foeniculum
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Anise hyssop is an aromatic North American perennial with lavender-blue flower spikes and anise-scented foliage. Easy to grow from seed and drought tolerant once established, it attracts large numbers of bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators.
- Quantity
- Around 200 seeds
- Exposure
- Full sun to light partial shade
- Life cycle
- Short- to medium-lived perennial
- Hardiness
- Zones 4 to 8
Discover the plant
Common nameAnise hyssop
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusAgastache
Speciesfoeniculum
Cultivar
TypeAromatic and edible perennial
Botanical nameAgastache foeniculum
Reproducible seedsYes
Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is an aromatic herbaceous perennial in the mint family, valued for its upright habit, green foliage and long lavender-blue to violet flower spikes. Its opposite, toothed and slightly heart-shaped leaves release a distinctive anise and liquorice fragrance when crushed. From summer into early fall, the flowers create a light vertical display that adds movement and colour to perennial beds. Hardy across much of Canada, this North American species returns reliably where drainage is good. It may also self-seed naturally in favourable locations, gradually forming attractive informal colonies without spreading through aggressive underground runners.
Anise hyssop performs best in full sun, although it tolerates light partial shade with somewhat fewer flowers. It prefers loose, average to moderately fertile soil that ranges from dry to evenly moist and drains exceptionally well. Young plants require regular watering while their roots become established, whereas mature plants tolerate short dry periods. Avoid heavy soil that remains wet, especially during winter, because excessive moisture can lead to crown and root rot. In Canadian gardens, a warm, sunny and well-ventilated site improves vigour and winter survival. Only light feeding is normally needed, since overly fertile soil may encourage softer stems and reduce the plant’s naturally sturdy habit.
In the garden, anise hyssop is well suited to perennial borders, naturalized plantings, edible landscapes and dedicated pollinator gardens. Its nectar-rich flowers are especially attractive to bees, butterflies and occasionally hummingbirds, while the seeds may feed small birds later in the season. The edible leaves and flowers have a sweet anise flavour that can enhance herbal tea, salads, desserts, syrups and chilled drinks. It combines beautifully with coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, bee balm, goldenrods and ornamental grasses. To reduce unwanted seedlings, remove faded flower spikes before the seeds mature. Leaving some stems standing through winter provides texture and allows wildlife to make use of the remaining seed heads.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
Surface sow or barely cover, approximately 3 mm
Spacing / density
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Germination temperature
Approximately 18 to 22°C
Germination time
10 to 21 days after stratification
Sowing period
Indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost; outdoors in spring or fall
Propagation
Seeds, division or basal cuttings
Cold stratification
Yes
Growing method
Sow Anise Hyssop seeds on the surface of a moist growing medium, as light promotes germination. Start seeds indoors from March to April or sow directly outdoors once the soil has warmed in spring. Maintain a temperature of 18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F) and consistent moisture until germination, which usually takes 10 to 30 days. This perennial prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil but also tolerates partial shade. Once established, it withstands moderately dry periods. It attracts many pollinators and may self-sow naturally in favorable gardens. Its hardiness makes Agastache foeniculum an excellent plant for ecological landscapes in Canada and the USA.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, approximately 6 to 8
Minimum temperature
Approximately -34°C
Care level
Low
Drought tolerance
Yes
Watering
Regular during establishment, then low to moderate
Soil type
Average, loose, dry to moist and well-drained
Fertilization
Light feeding in spring; avoid excess nitrogen
Moisture
Low to moderate; well-drained soil
Seasonal care
In spring, cut back the dry stems left standing over winter once new growth begins. Apply only a thin layer of compost when the soil is poor, since excessive feeding can produce weaker stems. During the first season, water regularly to help the root system become established. Afterwards, provide supplemental moisture mainly during extended drought. Remove some faded flowers to extend blooming, or retain selected seed heads to feed birds and encourage natural reseeding. Avoid cutting the plant down late in fall in colder regions, because the dry stems provide some protection for the crown and add winter texture. Divide older clumps in spring when growth declines.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in)
Anise Hyssop is especially easy to grow in containers thanks to its adaptable root system and good tolerance of dry conditions. Use a pot at least 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in) wide, filled with a light, well-drained potting mix. Place the container in a sunny location to encourage abundant flowering and strong nectar production. Water moderately, allowing the growing medium to dry slightly between waterings. Container culture also brings the flowers closer to patios and balconies, where hummingbirds and pollinators can be observed easily.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
Approximately 120 cm
Width / spread
Approximately 75 cm
Flower color
Lavender blue to violet
Foliage color
Medium to dark green
Foliage type
Herbaceous deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate to fast
Growth habit
Upright, branching and clump-forming
Fragrance
Strong anise, fennel and licorice fragrance
Bloom period
July to September, sometimes into October
Fruiting
Small brown seeds formed in the dried flower spikes
Days to maturity
Light harvest in the first year; full flowering generally in the second year
Harvest
Harvest leaves before or during bloom; pick open flowers; collect seeds when spikes turn brown
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, bee balm, milkweeds, asters and grasses
Plants to avoid
Plants requiring constantly wet or highly fertile soil
Recipe idea
From the gardento your plate.
Edible parts
Leaves and flowers
The leaves and flowers release a fragrance reminiscent of anise and fennel and can be used fresh or dried in herbal tea. They also flavor salads, desserts, lemonades, and herb blends. The edible flowers beautifully decorate dishes while adding a mild, slightly licorice-like taste. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and extends the usable season.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
How do you sow anise hyssop seeds?
Start Anise Hyssop seeds indoors from March to April, or sow them directly in the garden during spring once the soil has warmed. Because the seeds require light to germinate, press them onto the soil surface rather than burying them deeply.
Is anise hyssop perennial in Canada?
Anise Hyssop produces tall flower spikes containing abundant nectar. These blooms continuously attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds throughout much of the summer. Agastache foeniculum is considered one of the best native perennials for pollinators and wildlife-friendly gardens.
Is anise hyssop invasive?
Yes. The leaves and flowers have a pleasant anise or mild liquorice flavour. They may be used fresh or dried in herbal tea, salads, desserts, lemonade and aromatic garnishes.
Are anise hyssop leaves and flowers edible?
Yes. Anise Hyssop grows well in containers when planted in a light, well-drained potting mix. Choose a sunny location and use a pot at least 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in) wide.
Where should anise hyssop be planted?
Leave the dry flower stalks standing through winter and cut them back in spring. The stems help protect the crown, provide winter habitat and retain seeds for birds. A light layer of compost and occasional watering during prolonged drought are generally sufficient.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Attracts birds
Yes
Native plant
Yes
Supporting wildlife
Hummingbirds, bees and butterflies
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The right extras.Right here.
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