Agastache Growth and Care Guide
Agastache, commonly known as Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint, is a long-blooming perennial prized for its aromatic foliage and vibrant, nectar-rich flowers. Agastache is one of our top recommendations for Attracting Hummingbirds. It thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and is exceptionally tolerant of heat and drought once established. This Plant Guide covers everything you need to know to grow healthy, long-lived Agastache plants with maximum blooms. From sunlight and soil requirements to pruning, winter care, and common problems, this guide is designed to help Agastache thrive in real-world garden conditions.
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By: Reggie Meehan (8/4/2025) - Last Updated (2/4/2026)
Introduction to Agastache
Agastache is a beloved garden perennial celebrated for its spiky, colorful blooms, aromatic foliage, and strong pollinator appeal. It has earned its place as one of my all-time favorite perennials. From tall, dramatic varieties like Black Adder, to more compact forms like its brother, Little Adder, Agastache brings structure, movement, and life to borders and pollinator plantings.
Beyond its good looks, Agastache has a long history of practical use. Many varieties, especially anise hyssop types, have aromatic leaves with a light licorice scent that gardeners have used for teas and simple remedies for generations. What keeps me planting it year after year, though, is how reliable it is. Once established, it asks for very little and blooms from late Spring into Fall—and never seems bothered by heat, drought, or deer.
With most Agastache, even the faintest droop—induced by dryness —triggers an exquisite choreography of pollination. Foraging bees, alerted by subtle chemical cues and the promise of exposed nectar, spiral toward the bruised florets in a frenzy of purpose. It’s a dazzling spectacle: nature’s urgency and beauty intertwined, whispering hope for the waning fortunes of collapsing bee colonies.
In all my years of gardening, I have never seen a pollinator magnet quite like Agastache ‘Blue Boa’ with its vivid violet-blue flower spikes. These blooms rise tall above the lush green foliage and seem to buzz constantly with life from dawn until dusk. I’ve watched honeybees, native bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds take turns dancing from bloom to bloom, creating a spectacle that’s both beautiful and beneficial. It’s not just a plant—it’s a pollinator paradise.
If there is only one plant you add to your garden this year, let it be Agastache!
Characteristics of Agastache
There is an elephant in the room that needs to be addressed now … the pronunciation of Agastache. No one pronounces it the same because, over the years, it has had many different accented syllables. Here are several:
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a-GAH-sta-kee
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ag-ah-STAK-ee
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A-guh-stash
The latter appears to be the most currently used pronunciation but the answer is this. Who cares about the pronunciation? Just buy the plant!
Agastache’s unique combination of visual appeal, fragrance, and resilience makes it a must-have for gardeners. Its bottlebrush and tubular flowers come in every color, including purple, blue, red, pink, peach, orange, yellow, and white. And, due to their scent, they are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Size and Growth Habit
Agastache varieties will get somewhere between 1 and 4 feet tall, depending on the variety, with most between 18 inches and 3 feet. A normal, mature spread falls between 12 and 24 inches, depending on the variety and how it’s grown. All varieties share a naturally upright, well-mannered habit. The stems are sturdy and well-branched, so the plants rarely flop or sprawl, even when they’re loaded with flowers.
Agastache spreads primarily by self-seeding when spent flowers are left on the plant, dropping seeds that sprout the following season in favorable spots. Some varieties also spread slowly by shallow rhizomes or lateral roots, forming small clumps over time rather than aggressive colonies. If you keep an eye on it, this kind of spreading is more helpful than harmful, giving the garden a fuller, more natural look without turning into something you have to fight.
Leaves and Flowers
One of the most overlooked traits of Agastache is the scented foliage. People tend to focus on the flowers—and for good reason—but the leaves are just as memorable. Brush past it on a warm day or rub a leaf between your fingers and you’ll get that familiar licorice-like fragrance that feels clean and refreshing, not heavy. I’ve always liked planting it near paths or seating areas for that reason alone. The gray-green leaves stay tidy through the season and set off the brighter flower colors beautifully.
The flowers are where Agastache really earns its keep. Depending on the variety, you’ll see tall, bottlebrush-style spikes, or more compact, tubular displays. Either way, the blooms are packed with nectar and rarely sit empty—bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds work them steadily from morning to evening. Deer and rabbits tend to leave them alone, too, which is a small miracle in many gardens. For me, that combination of fragrance, color, and wildlife resistance is what makes Agastache such an easy yes year after year.
Is Agastache Annual or Perennial?
Agastache is a perennial in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–10, thriving especially well in Zone 8A, like South Carolina’s climate. With proper care, these plants return each year, often becoming more robust as they establish themselves. In colder zones, some varieties may act as short-lived perennials or even reseed themselves to ensure a continual presence in the garden. Well-drained soil is key to overwintering success, as Agastache is particularly sensitive to soggy soils.
Best Varieties of Agastache
Before we launch into the best of the best of the best, Proven Winners deserves a shout out. Thank you, Proven Winners, for popularizing "Hummingbird Mint". This name, which appears to have originated in the 1990’s with David Salman with High Country Gardens, has radically changed the demand for Agastache.
Every time Proven Winners creates a new name for a plant, it causes garden centers across the US to pause. But, the adaptation of the term Hummingbird Mint name is sheer genius. People want to buy Hummingbird Mint.
Now, back to the Best of the Best:
Blue Boa & Blue Fortune
We love Agastache 'Blue Boa' because we’ve seen it in action. Similarly 'Blue Fortune' holds a #1 ranking for its performance with the bees. Amazing. Blue Fortune has no trial rankings because it has been around for forever (that should tell you something). Blue Boa has a 4.5 out of 5 ranking. There are higher ranking Agastache, but nothing that we’ve seen that attracts the bees quite as well as these soft lavender flowers on sturdy stems.
Black Adder & Little Adder
Lest we forget where we come from, the original Black Adder at heights up to 4 feet began the movement for pollinator friendly Agastache. Little Adder (half the size) was added later. Neither have rankings because they have been around for so long (with good reason). Striking dark stems and purple flower spikes of these varieties add drama to any garden bed. Because of the success of these two hybrids, a greater demand began for more colors, bushier hybrids and dwarfs. Lest we forget.
Kudos™ Series
Kudos to TerraNova who bred the Kudos™ Series. This line really did change the way a lot of us use Hummingbird Mint in the garden. Nearly every color in the series earned trial ratings of 4.6 or higher, which tells you a lot about the consistency and performance, with the lone exception being Kudos® Red, which came in closer to a 4.0. Kudos® Coral has become a favorite for its warm, cheerful color that softens plantings without overpowering them, while Kudos® Mandarin brings bold, citrusy brightness that hummingbirds seem to find irresistible. The plants behave, the pollinators show up, and the garden just works a little better with them.
Honorable Mentions
Although we have little experience to date with the Summerlong™ Series, we are testing it this year because the trial data doesn’t lie. This series of Agastache, which range in height from 18-24”, offers a variety of colors, and the trial data show their success … Coral 4.92 (PSU), Lemon 4.79 (PSU), Lilac 4.3 (Raker Roberta, Magenta 4.75 (PSU), Peach 4.3.
We also have no experience with the Sunrise™ Series, a series from GreenFuse Botanicals, the trial data tell the story. Sunrise Blue 5, Orange 4.4, Salmon 5, Violet 4, and Yellow 4 (all Raker Roberta); Sunrise Rose 4.79 (PSU). We’re currently trialing the Sunrise® White, which only earned a 4.56 rating, but we’re just excited to finally have a true white Agastache.
How to Grow and Care for Agastache
Agastache is a low-maintenance plant that thrives with just a few basic care steps. By planting it correctly and maintaining its growing conditions, you can enjoy its beauty and benefits for years to come.
Planting Agastache
I like to plant Agastache in early Spring once the soil has warmed a bit. Give plants 12–24 inches of space, depending on the variety, so air can move freely around them—this alone prevents most issues down the road. Drainage matters more than richness here, so well-drained soil is a must, even if it’s lean. I often plant Agastache slightly raised or on a gentle mound to keep water from sitting around the crown, which it really dislikes. Water well at planting time, then ease back once roots start to take hold.
Sunlight Requirements
Agastache is happiest in full sun, and it really shows when it gets at least six hours a day. You can grow it in partial shade, but you’ll notice fewer flowers and a looser habit. If you want strong stems, better color, and nonstop blooms, give it sun and don’t overthink it.
Soil Requirements
If there’s one thing Agastache insists on, it’s good drainage. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, and it actually performs better in soil that isn’t overly rich. Heavy clay can be a problem unless it’s amended well, because wet soil—especially in Winter—is the fastest way to lose a plant. I’d rather see Agastache in poor soil than soggy soil any day.
Watering Needs
Young plants appreciate regular watering while they’re getting established, but once settled, Agastache is remarkably drought tolerant. Let the soil dry between waterings, which encourages deeper roots and sturdier plants. Overwatering is far more harmful than letting it get a little dry, and most problems I see trace back to too much water, not too little.
Fertilizer Needs
Agastache doesn’t need much feeding, and honestly, too much fertilizer can do more harm than good. If a plant looks sluggish in late Spring, a light application of slow-release fertilizer is plenty. Avoid high nitrogen—it pushes leafy growth at the expense of flowers and can make plants floppy.
Pruning & Maintenance
Deadheading spent blooms can help keep flowers coming, especially on compact varieties, but Agastache doesn’t demand constant grooming. I cut plants back to about 6–8 inches in late Winter or early Spring before new growth starts. For taller varieties, a light midseason trim can keep things tidy and encourage branching, but I tend to let them grow naturally unless they’re leaning.
Overwintering
In colder areas, a light mulch around the base helps protect roots, but avoid piling it directly against the crown. Winter wet is more dangerous than winter cold. I also avoid watering much during dormancy. In truly harsh climates, container-grown plants can be moved to a protected spot, but most Agastache handle winter just fine when planted correctly.
Common Pests
While generally pest-resistant, Agastache can occasionally (and we mean only occasionally) attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies (in the late Summer / early Fall). Regular monitoring and natural remedies can keep these pests at bay.
Insecticidal Soap & Neem Oil are the best organic remedies for Aphids & Spider Mites. eradication. For whiteflies, if they are identified early, use of organic pyrethrins can eradicate them. Absent early identification and control for aphids and whitefly, the use of acephate (Bonides’ Systemic Insect Control) works well in conjunction with other applications to eradicate problem infestations.
Common Diseases
Diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, or root rot are also rare and almost always tied to poor drainage or overcrowding. Good spacing and dry feet prevent most problems before they start.
Common Mistakes
The biggest mistake I see is overwatering. Agastache wants to dry out between waterings, and when its roots stay damp, decline happens fast—often before you realize what’s wrong. Perfectly healthy plants will fade simply because water collected around the crown after heavy rains. Skipping deadheading can also shorten the bloom season, especially on compact varieties that respond well to a little cleanup. And while many Agastache hold themselves upright, taller selections planted in open or windy sites may benefit from light staking early on to keep flower spikes standing tall and presentable through Summer storms.
Common Misconceptions
Some gardeners worry that Agastache is invasive, but in my experience it’s easy to manage. It may self-seed lightly, but a little deadheading keeps that in check. Others underestimate its pollinator value, which always makes me smile—it’s one of the best plants you can grow for bees and hummingbirds. And despite what some think, growing Agastache from seed isn’t difficult at all. It just takes patience and light, not complicated treatments.
Using Agastache in the Garden
Agastache can be used in the garden in many different ways. It brings strong vertical color, a light fragrance you notice as you move through the space, and a steady stream of pollinators—all without demanding much care. I’ve used it everywhere from wide-open borders to tucked-in containers, and it adapts beautifully as long as it has sun and good drainage.
Perennial Pollinator Gardens
If you want to attract pollinators, Agastache is hard to beat. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds seem to find it before the plants are even fully established. The tall spikes and tubular flowers are perfectly suited for nectar feeders, and once they start blooming, there’s rarely a quiet moment around them.
Agastache blooms through the heart of Summer and well into Fall, a time when many other perennials are starting to fade. Planting it alongside other pollinator-friendly favorites extends that benefit even further, creating a garden that stays active and alive long after Spring blooms are gone. It’s one of the simplest ways I know to support pollinators while still keeping the garden beautiful and manageable.
Fragrant Borders
One of the most underrated ways to use Agastache is in a fragrant border. The foliage carries that familiar licorice-like scent, and you don’t have to go out of your way to notice it—just brushing past the plant on a warm day is enough. I’ve always liked placing Agastache along paths or near seating areas for that reason alone; it adds another layer to the garden experience beyond what you see. The fragrance is pleasant and clean, never heavy, and it’s strong enough that visitors often ask what they’re smelling.
That scent isn’t just for us, either. It tends to discourage browsing pests, which is a nice bonus in high-traffic areas. For the best effect, I like planting Agastache in small clusters rather than as single specimens, so you get both the fragrance and the flowers at eye level. When it’s close enough to touch and watch, you really appreciate how much this plant brings to a garden.
Container Gardening
Agastache really shines in containers, especially the more compact varieties. Their upright habit and dense flower spikes give you height, color, and fragrance without taking over the pot, which is exactly what you want on a patio or balcony. I’ve used them in everything from simple terracotta pots to mixed containers, and they always hold their shape and look intentional, even in smaller spaces.
Agastache in containers is very forgiving. Once established, it doesn’t need constant watering the way many flowering plants do, which makes it a great option for busy gardeners or hot, sunny spots. I often pair it with ornamental grasses for movement or trailing plants to soften the edges, and the combination feels both practical and polished. It’s an easy way to get pollinators right up close while keeping container plantings low-stress and long-lasting.
Agastache Attracts Pollinators Daily
Agastache is a standout in any garden, offering a perfect blend of beauty, fragrance, and pollinator power. With its long-lasting blooms, aromatic foliage, and low-maintenance nature, it’s a reliable performer from midsummer through fall. Whether you’re planting it for the bees, the butterflies, or simply to enjoy its vibrant spikes swaying in the breeze, Agastache brings life and color to every corner of the garden. Add it to your landscape and enjoy a season full of movement, scent, and effortless charm.