Agastache, often known as giant hyssop or simply hyssop, is a plant that brings lightness, colour and movement to summer borders. Slender, upright stems are topped with spires of nectar-rich flowers, hovering above softly aromatic foliage that releases a gentle scent when brushed past. Agastache blooms for an impressively long season, offering shades of lavender, soft apricot, rose and smoky blue, often with subtle tonal shifts that catch the eye. There is an ease to Agastache that feels perfectly suited to relaxed planting, where flowers sway and mingle rather than stand to attention. In full bloom, Agastache creates a hazy, almost meadow-like effect, bringing warmth and a sense of abundance without ever feeling heavy.

In the garden, Agastache thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, where it rewards good drainage with strong growth and generous flowering. It is particularly well suited to British gardens that favour a naturalistic or pollinator-friendly approach, as Agastache is irresistible to bees and butterflies throughout the summer months. Plant Agastache towards the middle of borders, weaving it among grasses and perennials to create rhythm and continuity. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant and refreshingly low-fuss, making it a pleasure for gardeners who value beauty without constant intervention. For those looking to add colour, scent and wildlife appeal in one graceful package, Agastache proves itself a quietly brilliant choice.