1. * Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop (Horse Mint) – Agastache urticifolia
(ag-us-TAH-kee ur-tik-ih-FOH-lee-uh )
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Foothills of western N. America from British Columbia to Mexico. Locally in San
Bernardino Mtns; on dry, generally open slopes in woodlands, but common in many habitats.
Native to:
herbaceous perennial
mature height: 2-5 ft.
mature width: 2-5 ft.
Herbaceous perennial wildflower that spreads via creeping rhizomes. Foliage slightly coarse, mintlike in appearance.
Bright green leaves opposite along square stem, slightly minty scented.
Overall has the appearance of a small bush that dies back in fall/winter.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in summer – generally June-August, may have long blooming period (4+
weeks). Flowers are small, rose/violet along flowering stems held above the foliage. Flowers are
typical for Mint family and have light, sweet fragrance that’s irresistible to pollinators. Showy!
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Most often used for its habitat value, but a nice addition to the perennial garden
in its own right. Fine under trees (needs some sun) or sunny spots.
Excellent choice near the
vegetable garden, near fruit trees, near bird bath. Flowers & leaves make a refreshing tea.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Mints.
Excellent habitat plant: attracts butterflies, bees and other pollinators like a magnet.
Birds eat the seeds. Deer and other animals will occasionally browse the foliage.
Attracts:
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to part-shade (morning sun is excellent)
Well-drained soils – sandy soils are excellent. Any local pH including slightly acid.
Occasional to regular water – Zone 2-3 is optimal; takes winter flooding.
Light fertilizer fine.
Management:
Pretty easy to grow, hardy.
Cut back old stalks to just above woody stems in fall.
Propagation: from seed: 1-2 mo cold-moist treatment
by cuttings: tip cuttings in summer; also
by divisions in winter/early spring.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 6, 13, 19
6/21/10
* Native to CA but not to Western L.A. Co.
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