Anise Hyssop
Herbaceous perennial reaching 60-120 cm tall. Features anise-scented foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers blooming for extended period. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Drought-tolerant once established. Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Leaves can be used for tea. Self-seeds readily in favorable conditions.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Blue to Purple
Bloom Time: Mid-Summer to Fall
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: New growth emerges from crown in mid-May. Leaves reach full size by early June. Blooming begins late June, continuing through September. Seeds mature September-October, dried seed heads providing winter interest. Dies back completely in late fall.
Wildlife Value: Superior nectar plant for bumblebees, honeybees, and butterflies; seeds eaten by goldfinches; aromatic foliage deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Develops upright, bushy clumps that maintain clear boundaries. While it self-seeds readily, it does not spread aggressively through rhizomes. The strong vertical elements provide good structure while allowing views through to background plants. Individual clumps gradually increase in size but remain well-behaved.
Height: Medium to Tall (2-4 feet)