Agastache

Giant Mexican Hyssop

(Agastache mexicana) is a much hybridized species that originates in central Mexico. This heavy blooming species of agastache is attractive to hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. Hearty in zones 7-11, this plant is available in color varieties ranging from pin to red to white. When crushed or bruised, leaves of this plant give off a lemony aroma.

Currently we have the variety “Acapulco” potted in the BioWorks Flight Enclosure. We knew this nectar source was a winner when we wheeled it through the door and the butterflies descended upon it before we could even unload the wheelbarrow.

Anise Hyssop

(Agastache foeniculum) is a purple blooming form of agastache. This member of the mint family is native to the northern portions of North America but it still seems to thrive in West Central Florida gardens. When crushed, the leaves of anise hyssop have a fragrant licorice or anise aroma.

The tiny clusters of purple flowers are deliciously attractive to smaller species of butterflies like the the Fulvous Hairstreak (Electrostrymon angelia) pictured below. These diminutive flowers are also pollinated by a number of species of bee and you can find some neat species making visits like the Green Metallic Bee. When creating a butterfly garden, try using a wide variety of nectar plant species in a variety of colors and heights. Br providing a variety of nectar plants you often will attract a greater variety of butterfly species.

Anise hyssop is a perennial plant that can handle full sun and has minimal watering needs. These plants can grow 3 to 5 feet in height and seem to do best when the deadheads are removed after they finish blooming.

You can see anise hyssop blooming in the BioWorks Flight Enclosure and also mixed in with the nectar heavy annuals and perennials in front of the butterfly garden.