Purple Giant Hyssop - Agastache scrophularifolia

PURPLE GIANT HYSSOP - AGASTACHE SCROPHULARIFOLIA

Phonetic: ah-GAH-sta-kee

Versatile addition to a flower bed with long blooming flowers that attract numerous bees, butterflies and birds. Can be used as an aromatic cut and dry flower as well as an herbal tea.  It is a member of the mint family and can tolerate a wide range of soils.  

• Hardiness Zone: 3-8
• Native Northeast Region: BONAP Map
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key
• Sun Exposure: Full To Partial Sun
• Flower Color: Pale Purple
• Bloom Time: July, August, September, October
• Soil Type: Med-Moist
• Mature Plant Size: 3-5'H
• Plant Spacing: 1.5-2'
• Host Plant: Painted Lady
• Attracts: Bees, Birds, Butterflies
• Advantages: Aromatic, cut flower, dried flower, high nectar, long blooming, medicinal and culinary herb, repels harmful insects such as slugs and cabbage moths in the vegetable garden
• Landscape Uses: Butterfly garden, cottage garden, perennial border
• Companion Plants: Foxglove Beardtongue, Meadow Phlox, New England Aster, Purple Coneflower, Orange Coneflower, Summer Phlox

Caring for Purple Giant Hyssop After Planting

Adding purple giant hyssop to your garden is a simple way to create habitat for pollinators while enjoying tall, colorful native perennials. To help your it thrive after planting, keep these care tips in mind:

• Water consistently during the first season: As their roots mature, it is important to water deeply during dry periods, then gradually reduce watering as the plant settles in.
• Leave stems standing through winter: Keeping old growth in place provides shelter for beneficial insects and adds appeal to the winter garden. Cut stems back in early spring before new growth shows up.
• Avoid unnecessary pruning: This low-maintenance perennial does not require regular shaping. Remove only damaged growth or trim lightly if you prefer a tidier appearance.
• Use deadheading selectively: Remove faded flowers, but leave some to form seeds and provide food for birds.
• Allow plants to mature naturally: These plants often become stronger and more resilient over time, requiring less maintenance as their roots expand.

Choose purple giant hyssop from Bagley Pond Perennials today or reach out for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does purple giant hyssop take to mature?

Most plants spend their first season focusing on root development before reaching their full size. Growth often becomes more obvious in later years as the plant settles into its location.

Does it aggressively grow in the garden?

This plant typically forms a well-behaved clump and does not aggressively spread. It can gradually increase in size, creating a fuller presence in garden beds over time.

Can this plant grow in containers?

While it is best suited for garden landscapes, it can be grown in large containers with enough drainage and space for root development.

Should I remove old stems in spring?

Leaving stems through winter is beneficial for wildlife, but they can be trimmed back in early spring before new growth begins.

Is purple giant hyssop a good choice for beginner gardeners?

Yes. Its adaptability and low maintenance needs make it an excellent option for gardeners learning about native landscaping.