How to Grow Anise Hyssop
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Anise Hyssop
Agastache foeniculum
herbAnise hyssop is a fragrant perennial herb with tall spires of purple, pink, or white flowers that bloom throughout summer and fall. Its leaves and flowers have a distinctive anise-licorice flavor and aroma, making it popular for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. The plant attracts pollinators and is easy to grow in most climates.
When should you plant Anise Hyssop in your zone?
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Example Anise Hyssop timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Anise Hyssop
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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Harvest Anise Hyssop
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Anise Hyssop dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; overwinters best in zones 5-8
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging, very delicate and small
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright indirect light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Vegetative
4-6 weeksYoung plant developing multiple stems and increasingly aromatic leaves; leafy bushy growth
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier, fuller plant structure. Water regularly. Fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Flowering
8-12 weeksTall flower spikes (18-36 inches) with whorled tubular flowers in purple, pink, or white; flowers attract bees and hummingbirds
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming season. Water consistently during flowering. Support tall varieties with stakes if needed in windy locations.
Seed Production
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and develop seed heads; seeds ripen and turn brown as plant prepares for dormancy
Allow some flowers to remain for seed collection. Cut flower heads before they shatter to harvest seeds. Leave some seeds for wildlife and self-seeding.
Dormancy
3-5 months (winter)Plant dies back after frost in cooler zones; may remain evergreen in warmer climates
Cut back dead growth in late fall or early spring. Mulch around base in zones 4-5 for winter protection. In zones 8-9, minimal pruning needed.
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with water; use neem oil if severe
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur or baking soda spray; remove affected leaves
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and
Hand-pick at dawn/dusk; use copper tape barriers; beer traps; encourage natural predators
Uses
Flavoring & Tea
CulinaryAnise hyssop leaves and flowers add a sweet licorice flavor to herbal teas, beverages, desserts, and baked goods. The flowers make an attractive and flavorful garnish for salads and cocktails. [source]
Digestive & Respiratory Support
MedicinalTraditionally used in herbal medicine to support digestion, reduce bloating, and soothe coughs and sore throats. The plant contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeAnise hyssop is highly attractive to honeybees, native bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, making it excellent for pollinator gardens and supporting local ecosystems. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Crafts
CraftDried flower spikes are attractive in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. The plant material holds color and fragrance well when properly dried. [source]
Natural Fragrance
HouseholdFresh or dried leaves can be used in sachets, potpourri, and aromatherapy to provide a pleasant licorice-mint fragrance throughout the home. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves and flowers throughout the growing season for fresh use. Cut stems just above leaf nodes to encourage regrowth. Best flavor before flowers fully open. For drying, harvest in early morning after dew dries. Dry flowers and leaves whole or strip from stems, store in airtight containers away from light. Allow some flowers to remain for pollinators and seed production.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Anise hyssop is native to the central United States and was used by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties long before European settlement.
- 🌱 The plant is highly attractive to pollinators because its flower design naturally guides bees toward nectar; hummingbirds also love it, sometimes visiting multiple times daily during peak bloom.
- 🌱 Anise hyssop self-seeds readily, often creating natural drifts in gardens; in warmer zones, it may spread enthusiastically, though it's easily managed by deadheading before seeds mature.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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