Agastache, widely known as hummingbird mint or anise hyssop, is a highly aromatic, drought-tolerant perennial belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Famous for its tall, spiky blooms, it thrives in hot, sunny xeriscapes and is an exceptional magnet for local pollinators.
Sensory & Flavor Surprises
- Root Beer Aroma: While most varieties smell like anise, mint, or licorice, the Agastache rupestris (Sunset hyssop) gives off a distinct scent of root beer when its leaves are crushed. [1, 2, 3]
- Sweet Edible Flowers: Both the colorful blooms and the foliage are entirely edible and are commonly used to add flavor to salads, teas, and baked goods. [1, 2, 3]
- Square Stems: True to the mint family, all Agastache plants feature distinct square stems. [1]
Pollinator Magnet
- Hummingbird Favorite: The tube-shaped flowers hold deep reservoirs of nectar, making them irresistible to hummingbirds.
- High Nectar Production: It is one of the highest-rated nectar-producing plants for honeybees and serves as a vital food source for native bees and butterflies.