Agastache is a Hardy Perennial (often treated as a short-lived perennial).

Also known as "Korean Mint" or "Giant Hyssop," it originates from East Asia. It is incredibly vigorous and will bloom just a few months after sowing. While it can survive UK winters (especially in well-drained soil), it gives so much energy to flowering that many gardeners treat it as a fresh annual/biennial to ensure the best display.

The Scent: The essential oils in the leaves are strong. On a hot day, you can smell the liquorice scent wafting through the air without even touching the plant.

Agastache is very easy to grow but hates wet feet in winter.

Germination:
Sow indoors from February to April. Surface sow onto moist compost and do not cover (they need light to germinate). Keep warm (20°C). Germination is usually rapid (7-14 days).

Where to Sow:
Plant out after the last frost. They need full sun and free-draining soil. If you have heavy clay, grow them in raised beds or add grit to the planting hole. They are drought tolerant once established.

Care While Growing:
Deadhead: While you can deadhead to encourage more blooms, the seed heads look beautiful in winter (standing like dark skeletons) and provide food for goldfinches.

The vertical blue spikes of Agastache look incredible with contrasting shapes and colours:

• 🌼 Rudbeckia 'Marmalade': The Colour Clash. The deep yellow/gold of Rudbeckia provides a vibrant contrast to the violet-blue of Agastache. Both flower late into the summer.
• 🌸 Echinacea (Coneflower): The Shape Contrast. The large, flat, daisy heads of Echinacea sit beautifully alongside the tall, thin candles of the Agastache. A classic prairie planting combination.

Sow indoors in spring. Flowers July to October.