How to Grow Agastache Sunset
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Agastache Sunset
Agastache aurantiaca 'Sunset'
flowerAgastache Sunset is a striking ornamental perennial featuring vibrant orange-red flowers that bloom profusely from mid-summer through fall. This aromatic cultivar produces dense spikes of tubular flowers attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. The plant has soft, minty-scented foliage and a mounding, upright growth habit.
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Example Agastache Sunset timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Agastache Sunset
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Agastache Sunset blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Agastache Sunset dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best in zones 5-9; thrives in moderate to warm climates with good drainage
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons and developing first true leaves; very small and delicate
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright indirect light. Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with soft, aromatic mint-scented leaves; no flowers yet; stems become woodier
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Pinch tips once or twice to encourage bushier growth. Begin feeding with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Budding & Early Flowering
3-4 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips, gradually elongating into dense flower spikes; first flowers begin to open
Continue moderate watering. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer and switch to bloom-promoting fertilizer (higher phosphorus). Remove any dead leaves.
Peak Flowering
8-12 weeks (July through September)Full, vibrant orange-red flower spikes in bloom; flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators; continuous blooming
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continued blooming. Water during extended dry periods. Enjoy as cut flowers.
Fall & Dormancy Preparation
4-6 weeks (September through November)Flowering slows as temperatures cool; foliage may develop reddish tints; seed pods form if flowers aren't deadheaded
Reduce watering significantly in late fall. Allow some flowers to set seed for self-seeding. Cut back stems by one-third before winter in colder zones. Provide mulch in zone 5.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap in severe infestations; improve air circulation
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Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering; apply fungicidal spray if needed; remove affected leaves
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Remove debris where they hide; use copper barriers or slug baits; hand-pick at dusk
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Spray with strong water stream; use yellow sticky traps; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed
Uses
Tea and flavoring
CulinaryThe aromatic, minty foliage can be dried and brewed into a pleasant herbal tea with a subtle anise-like flavor. Fresh or dried leaves add unique flavor to beverages, desserts, and culinary creations. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator magnet
WildlifeAgastache Sunset is highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The continuous summer-long blooms provide essential nectar throughout the season, supporting pollinator populations. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdThe vibrant orange-red flower spikes are excellent long-lasting cut flowers for fresh arrangements. The aromatic foliage adds texture and scent to bouquets and dried arrangements. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalAgastache has been used in traditional medicine for its potential digestive and antimicrobial properties. The leaves contain volatile oils with aromatic and potential therapeutic compounds. [source]
Dried flower arrangements and crafts
CraftDried Agastache Sunset flower spikes hold their vibrant color remarkably well and are excellent for dried arrangements, wreaths, and other craft projects. The aromatic quality is retained in dried flowers. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout summer and fall. Cut flowers for arrangements when the lower flowers on the spike are fully open—they last 7-10 days in a vase. Allow some flowers to remain for seed production and wildlife food. In fall, allow seed heads to mature if you want self-seeding; otherwise, cut back the entire plant after frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Agastache Sunset produces highly fragrant foliage with minty and licorice-like scent notes; the aroma intensifies when foliage is brushed or rubbed.
- 🌱 Hummingbirds are so attracted to the tubular flowers that gardens with Agastache plants often experience dramatic increases in hummingbird activity throughout the blooming season.
- 🌱 The plant is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, making it naturally adapted to dry, sunny conditions with minimal supplemental watering.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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