How to Grow Anise Hyssop From Seed

Anise hyssop

Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) produces vibrant purple blossoms that really put on a show in a flowerbed. This under appreciated herb may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is well known to some Native American tribes as, unlike common hyssop, it's native to North America.  It attracts bees and butterflies, so it's a good choice if you want to attract pollinators to your garden, and if you enjoy tea, anise hyssop's leaves, flowers and stems make a delicious beverage either hot or cold.

A Guide to Growing Anise Hyssop From Seed

A low-maintenance herb, anise hyssop has a lot to recommend it for inclusion in your garden. It's pest and disease resistant. It is also drought tolerant (but seedlings and young plants should be treated with extra care and more regular watering during dry periods as their root systems take a while to fully developed). Anise Hyssop is a perennial that will typically reemerge year after year in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.

Start seeds indoors 5 to 8 weeks before the last frost in spring, or sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring or early summer after all danger of frost has passed.  For better germination rates, seeds may require cold stratification before planting. This is a process that brings seeds out of winter dormancy. (See below) 

Anise seeds are tiny. Scatter them lightly on a seed starting mix and barely cover them with soil. The seeds are so small and light they are easily displaced by the wind, so  you'll have better luck starting them indoors.  Seeds should germinate within two weeks. For better termination rates, seeds may require cold stratification before planting. This is process This is process that Brings seeds out of winter dormancy. (See below)

Give anise hyssop well-drained soil. It will not tolerate soggy conditions, like clay soy that hasn't been amended with loosening agents. A sandy loam mix is the best choice here. This herb thrives in full sun, too. It should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. For the best results, space seeds 18 to 24 inches apart, water regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting and during dry spells. Anise hyssop is not a heavy feeder. Preparing the soil with a light application of compost in the spring is adequate for the season.

For larger, bushier plants and more abundant flowering, consider pinching off spent flower heads regularly. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms. Anise Hyssop leaves, flowers and stems can be harvested throughout the growing season. Use A knife or sharp scissors as needed. Using a sharp tool will create less stress on the plant and less risk of problems with bacteria, fungus and pests.

Polinators love anise hyssop

Growing Anise Hyssop From Seed - by the Numbers

• Botanical name: (Agastache foeniculum)
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Hardiness Zones: 5-9
• Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed.
• Days to Germination: 10 to 14 days
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy loam
• Moisture and Humidity: Moderate moisture, tolerates drought well once established. Prefers average humidity.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for best flowering.
• Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
• Days to Maturity: 60 to 70 days
• Height at Maturity: 2 to 4 feet
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest and disease resistant.
• Uses and Benefits
• Culinary: Leaves and flowers are edible with a licorice-mint flavor. Great for teas.
• Medicinal: Limited medicinal use, but some studies suggest potential benefits for coughs and respiratory issues. Always consult a medical professional before using herbs medicinally.
• Ornamental: Beautiful flower spikes attract pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
• History: Native to North America. Used by some indigenous tribes for medicinal purposes.
• Propagation: Seed, division
• Common Names: Giant hyssop, lavender hyssop, licorice mint
• Seed Longevity: 2 to 3 years
• Nutritional Value: Not a significant source of nutrients.
• Companion Planting: Catmint, lavender, other herbs

Cold Stratification: Cold stratification is a technique used to simulate winter for seeds that need a period of cold to help them germinate. This mimics what happens naturally when seeds are dispersed in autumn and sprout in spring. Here's how it works:

Seeds from some plants enter dormancy in winter and will not germinate without a period of cold temperatures. Gardeners can mimic winter by placing the seeds in a moist, cool environment, like a refrigerator, for a period of time. Subsequent removal from the cold, breaks their dormancy and improves germination rates. Seeds behave as though they've gone through a winter season and sprout when planted.

For more information:

How to Grow and Use Hyssop

Hyssop Tea Recipe

Photo Reference:

Photo 1 - Guettarda, https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Agastache_foeniculum.jpg