Agastache

Agastache plants appeal to more than one sense. Their upright flower spikes bring long-lasting colour in shades of violet, blue, pink, orange and purple, while the foliage is aromatic when brushed or crushed. Common names include giant hyssop and anise hyssop, depending on the species, and many varieties combine an airy habit with strong vertical flower stems.

Bees, butterflies and other pollinators are among Agastache’s greatest admirers, visiting the nectar-rich flowers repeatedly through summer. These perennials prefer warmth, sun and free-draining soil, and they dislike sitting wet through winter, so position matters in UK gardens. Once established in suitable conditions, Agastaches cope well with periods of dryness and fit naturally into gravel gardens, prairie-style planting and sunny mixed borders.

Bare-root Agastache perennials work particularly well where planting needs fragrance, movement and a strong wildlife component without becoming heavy. Their flower spikes rise cleanly between grasses and rounded perennials, while the aromatic foliage gives the hyssop plants character even before flowering reaches its peak.