Agastache urticifolia (Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop)

Robust and long-lived, Agastache urticifolia (Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop) is a tall, herbaceous, strongly aromatic, perennial boasting dense flowering spikes, 6 in. long (15 cm), packed with tiny, white to rose or violet flowers with protruding stamens. Blooming in early to late summer, they are borne atop stout, square, glabrous leafy stems. They are a nectar source for many bees, moths, hummingbirds, and butterflies, including monarch butterflies. The leaves are triangular to egg-shaped, coarsely and irregularly serrated along the edges. Green on both surfaces, they are often purplish near the base. They emit a strong minty fragrance when crushed. The flowers give way to small seeds, and birds will feast on them. Because Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop grows in poor soils, has moderate water needs, and attracts pollinators, it is desirable for water-wise native landscaping. Highly valuable to livestock, wildlife, and pollinators, it is also desirable for use in restoration projects. Agastache urticifolia has a deep, thick, extensive fibrous root system with creeping root stalks. It will spread under favorable conditions without becoming invasive.

• Grows up to 1-6 ft. tall (30-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Thrives in wet to dry, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Although growing in wet and dry habitats, it is not exceptionally drought tolerant. Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop tolerates a variety of soil textures and pH levels from 6 to 8. Tolerates poor soils, rocky soils, and soils lacking organic matter.
• A good candidate for butterfly gardens, native plant gardens, or prairies and meadows.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Propagate by seed.
• Native to the western United States and southern British Columbia.