Botanical Name: Agastache × hybrida ‘Kudos® Mandarin’

Common Name: Hummingbird Mint

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 5–10)

Size: 14–18" Tall × 14–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Compact, Mounded, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Thrives in Full Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor or Sandy Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate Once Established; Drought Tolerant

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Fall

Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring; Avoid Excess Nitrogen

Features: Bright Mandarin-Orange Flower Spikes, Aromatic Foliage, Heat Tolerant, Deer Resistant, Strong Pollinator Appeal

Uses: Ideal for Borders, Containers, Pollinator Gardens, Perennial Beds, and Small-Space Plantings

Patent: ✔ Patented

Plant Patent: PP25,381

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

More About Agastache × hybrida ‘Kudos® Mandarin’

Agastache × hybrida ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ brings bold, citrus-orange color to the hummingbird mint category while maintaining the compact, controlled habit the Kudos® series is known for. Its vivid mandarin-orange flower spikes create a high-energy focal point in the garden, offering a warmer, brighter alternative to the blues and purples more commonly associated with Agastache.

Bred specifically for smaller spaces and container use, ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ stays naturally tidy and well-branched without sacrificing flower power. The aromatic foliage adds sensory appeal and reinforces its strong deer resistance, while the long bloom window ensures continuous color from late spring through fall.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ has performed exceptionally well in full sun with well-drained soil, even during extended heat and humidity. It establishes quickly, begins blooming early, and continues producing fresh flower spikes without becoming leggy or open.

Pollinators respond immediately. Hummingbirds are especially drawn to the bright orange blooms, with bees and butterflies visiting throughout the day. We also appreciate how consistent and intentional the plant looks—its compact size makes it easy to place at the front of borders or in containers where taller Agastache varieties would overwhelm the space.

Agastache × hybrida ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ vs. Other Agastache Varieties

Agastache ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ is prized for its intense orange coloration and compact, highly controlled growth habit, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want bold color without excessive size. Compared to taller, more open varieties like ‘Black Adder’, Kudos® Mandarin remains dense, upright, and well-branched, holding its form cleanly from early summer through peak bloom. Its smaller stature makes it especially effective in containers, tight borders, and high-impact accent plantings where structure matters.

When contrasted with cooler-toned selections such as ‘Blue Boa’ or ‘Beelicious® Pink’, Kudos® Mandarin delivers warm, fiery contrast that instantly draws the eye—and hummingbirds. It pairs beautifully with other compact varieties like ‘Kudos® Coral’ or ‘Little Adder’, but stands out for its richer, more saturated orange hue. For modern landscapes, pollinator gardens, and designers seeking concentrated color in a restrained footprint, ‘Kudos® Mandarin’ is one of the most vibrant and reliable Agastache choices available.