Anise hyssop

Plant family

Lippenblütler (Lamiaceae) (Lamiaceae)

Synonyms

Blue Giant Hyssop, Fragrant Giant Hyssop, Lavender Giant Hyssop

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Dry

Soil

Light (sandy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Seeding distance

35 cm

Row spacing

35 cm

Seeding depth

0.5 cm

Instructions

Description

Anise hyssop is also known as giant hyssop or fragrant nettle. Like the real hyssop, it belongs to the labiates family (Lamiaceae), but otherwise has not much in common with him except for their blue flowers. Anise hyssop can grow up to 1 m tall and has 4-angled stems and nettle-like leaves. In summer, the purple-blue flower corollas, about 10 cm in size, are formed, consisting of many small individual flowers, which are highly appreciated by insects and give off a pleasant fragrance. Its leaves and flowers have a slight flavor of anise, fennel and licorice. Can also be used fresh or dried as a tea.

Growing tips

Undemanding. Plant out or sow only after the first frosts. In a favorable location, it also sows itself. After 2-3 years it may be necessary to replant. The still small plants should be protected from snails, e.g. by mulching. Anise hyssop is hardy and sprouts again in spring. Prefers dry, well-drained soil. Good in mixed culture with agastaches of other heights. Leaves can theoretically be harvested year-round; early harvest results in later flowering.