Also known as Anise-Mint · Blue Giant-Hyssop · Fennel
Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is a fragrant perennial herb with spikes of lavender-blue flowers that attract pollinators and can be used in culinary applications.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures. Tolerates heat well but can be sensitive to extreme cold without protection.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from light feeding in spring. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially when young and during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Once established, Agastache foeniculum is relatively drought-tolerant.
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back plants in late fall or early spring to remove dead foliage and promote new growth. This also helps prevent winter damage.
Easily propagated from seed sown in spring, either indoors or directly in the garden after the last frost. Can also be propagated by division of established clumps in early spring or fall.
Agastache foeniculum generally does not require frequent repotting. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots become crowded, using a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Agastache |
| Species | Agastache foeniculum |
Similar in genus Agastache
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
