Sunset Hyssop Information: How To Grow Sunset Hyssop Plants
As the name implies, sunset hyssop plants produce trumpet-shaped blooms that share the colors of the sunset – bronze, salmon, orange and yellow, with hints of purple and deep pink. Native to Mexico, Arizona and New Mexico, sunset hyssop (Agastache rupestris) is a hardy, striking plant that attracts butterflies, bees and hummingbirds to the garden. Growing sunset hyssop isn’t difficult, as the plant is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance. If this brief description has piqued your interest, read on to learn how to grow sunset hyssop in your own garden.
Sunset Hyssop Information
The fragrant aroma of sunset hyssop plants is reminiscent of root beer, thus giving it the moniker “root beer hyssop plant.” The plant may also be known as licorice mint hyssop. Sunset hyssop is a hardy, versatile, fast-growing plant suitable for growing in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 10. At maturity, clumps of sunset hyssop reach heights of 12 to 35 inches (30-89 cm.), with a similar spread.
Caring for Root Beer Hyssop Plants
Plant sunset hyssop in well-drained soil. Hyssop is a desert plant that is likely to develop root rot, powdery mildew or other moisture-related diseases in wet conditions. Water sunset hyssop regularly the first growing season, or until the plant is well established. Thereafter, sunset hyssop is very drought tolerant and generally does fine with natural rainfall. Mulch sunset hyssop lightly with pea gravel in late autumn if you live in the cooler range of hyssop’s acceptable growing zones. Avoid compost or organic mulch, which may keep the soil too moist. Deadhead flowers as soon as they wilt to encourage development of more buds. Deadheading also keeps the plant neat and attractive. Divide sunset hyssop plants in late spring or summer if the plants look overgrown or are outgrowing their boundaries. Replant the divisions, or share them with friends or family. Cut sunset hyssop nearly to the ground in early spring. The plant will soon rebound with a burst of healthy, vigorous growth.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
A Credentialed Garden Writer, Mary H. Dyer was with Gardening Know How in the very beginning, publishing articles as early as 2007.
-
Forage For Herbs: 7 Tasty And Safe Wild Herbs To Pick Close To Your Own Backyard
In addition to growing your own herbal staples, did you know there are several wild options out there that are safe and tasty – and free? Try foraging these 7 wild herbs
By Amy Grant
-
Should You Cut Back Roses In The Fall? – When To Prune Your Prized Shrubs For Winter
Discover whether to cut back roses before the onset of winter – or to leave plants alone until spring.
By Melanie Griffiths
-
Hyssop Plants In Containers – Can You Grow Hyssop In Pots
Hyssop is, like many other herbs, very tolerant of a variety of environments. But how about growing hyssop plants in containers? Can you grow hyssop in pots? Click on this article to find out how to grow a hyssop plant in a pot.
By Amy Grant
-
Agastache Plant Types – Varieties Of Hyssop For The Garden
Agastache varieties may cross pollinate and produce specimens that do not mimic the parent plant. This can either be a fun occurrence or a nuisance if your preferred species is taken over by a cross. Learn more about the types of Agastache in this article.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Cutting Back Anise Hyssop: How And When To Prune Agastache
Agastache, or anise hyssop, is an aromatic, culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal herb. Light trimming will keep the plant looking its best. In this article, we will discuss when and how to prune Agastache for the best results and a healthy plant.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Agastache Flower - How To Grow Agastache
Agastache is a perennial plant with lovely flower spires that bloom all season long. Learning how to grow Agastache requires no special skills or care. The information in this article can help get you started.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Tips For Growing Hyssop Plant In Your Garden
Hyssop is an attractive flowering herb commonly grown for its flavorful leaves. Growing a hyssop plant is easy and makes a lovely addition to the garden. Find out how to grow hyssop plants in this article.
By Nikki Tilley