Plant Profile: Agastache foeniculum

This perennial thrives in full to partial sunlight and prefers mesic to dry conditions, reaching heights of 3 to 5 feet. It should be spaced 2 to 24 inches apart in well-drained soil. The leaves emit a pleasant anise or licorice aroma, making them suitable for flavoring salads and teas, while the seeds can enhance cookies, cakes, and muffins. The upper stems feature spikes of flowers that vary in color and measure approximately 3 to 6 inches in length. These small blooms are densely clustered in whorls along the spike and eventually give way to smooth, oval nutlets. Flowering typically begins in late July and persists into late autumn, even during less favorable summers. The plants are capable of self-seeding in the garden and generally survive winter well, provided the soil is well-drained. Anise hyssop is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds to the garden.

There are no significant issues with insects or diseases; however, crown or root rot may occur in poorly drained soils. Keep an eye out for rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spots.

Propagation can be achieved through seeds or by division in either spring or fall. This plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can thrive in full sun or light shade, requiring spacing of 12 to 24 inches.