Apricot Sprite Hyssop Agastache aurantiaca 'Apricot Sprite'
ABOUT
Apricot Sprite is a captivating perennial that's cherished for its unique and delightful presentation. As its name suggests, it is adorned with apricot-colored flowers, which possess a charming tubular shape bound to attract both the eyes of passersby and the local hummingbirds in equal measure. These flowers, poised atop slender flowering spikes, provide a profusion of warm, pastel tones reminiscent of a refreshing summer sorbet. The foliage of Apricot Sprite, a lush green with fine textural qualities, offers a harmonious contrast that accentuates the floral hues. The plant's leaves exude a pleasant aroma when touched or brushed against, which adds an additional sensory experience to its display. The foliage forms a compact and bushy presence, creating an excellent backdrop for the floral spectacle that rises above. Apricot Sprite blooms are not only visually appealing but are also long-lasting, ensuring a prolonged season of color in your garden. The plant's overall appearance radiates a whimsical and airy charm that can soften garden borders, enhance container plantings, and add a cottage garden feel to any landscape. It's the interplay of the soft, apricot-tinted blossoms against the green backdrop that truly makes Apricot Sprite a standout selection for garden enthusiasts looking to inject a playful yet elegant note into their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Apricot Sprite Hyssop, Orange Hummingbird Mint
Common names
Agastache aurantiaca 'Apricot Sprite'.
ToxicityTo humans
Agastache, commonly known as Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint, including the 'Apricot Sprite' variety, is generally considered safe and non-toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications and traditional medicine. However, individuals with plant allergies or sensitivities could potentially experience allergic reactions. If ingested in very large quantities, it might cause mild stomach upset, but this is rare. Overall, the consequences of ingesting this plant are typically minimal and not associated with serious toxicity.
To pets
Hyssop, including the 'Apricot Sprite' variety, is not commonly listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It is often grown in gardens where pets have access and is not known to cause serious problems if ingested. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in some pets, especially if they consume a large amount. It is always best to prevent pets from eating plants not intended for their consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Agastache aurantiaca 'Apricot Sprite' is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden, benefiting pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: The plant is drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves of the 'Apricot Sprite' release a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed, adding sensory appeal to the garden.
- Long Blooming Season: It has a lengthy flowering period from early summer to fall, providing long-lasting color and interest.
- Deer Resistance: This plant is rarely damaged by deer, making it a good choice for areas where deer browsing can be a problem.
- Easy to Grow: 'Apricot Sprite' is low maintenance and generally easy to care for, ideal for novice gardeners and those looking for uncomplicated plantings.
- Uses in Landscape: Can be used in borders, containers, rock gardens, and as cut flowers, offering versatility in garden design.
Medical PropertiesAnti-inflammatory: Agastache aurantiaca has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Antimicrobial: The plant may contain compounds that can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
Antioxidant: It may contain antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Gastrointestinal Relief: Traditionally, it has been used to aid in digestion and relieve symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Respiratory Support: There is some traditional use of Agastache aurantiaca in relieving respiratory conditions and supporting the respiratory system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of Hyssop can be used to create a natural dye for fabric, imparting a gentle apricot color.
- In the creation of potpourri: The dried leaves and flowers can be added to potpourri mixes for their delightful scent.
- Companion planting: Hyssop can be planted alongside vegetables like tomatoes or cabbage to help deter certain pests through its strong aroma.
- Livestock feed additive: In some herbal forages, the leaves of Hyssop can be mixed in small amounts to add variation to the diet of livestock.
- Edible landscaping: Hyssop can be used in ornamental gardens where both aesthetics and edible plants are desired.
- Pressed flower art: The colorful flowers can be pressed and used in crafting, such as creating bookmarks or greeting cards.
- Floral arrangements: Fresh or dried Hyssop flowers can be used in floral arrangements for their color and fragrance.
- Educational tool: Hyssop can be included in school gardens as a way of teaching children about pollinator-friendly plants.
- Herbal baths: Hyssop flowers and leaves can be added to bathwater for a fragrant, relaxing soak.
- Culinary garnish: Fresh Hyssop flowers can add a splash of color and a hint of flavor when used as a garnish for salads or desserts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Agastache is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Agastache is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction: Agastache, commonly known as Hyssop, often symbolizes attraction or a magnetic pull, likely referring to its allure to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Healing: Historically, Hyssop has been associated with medicinal properties and thus can represent healing. It has been used in traditional herbal medicine.
- Protection: In some folklore, Hyssop is believed to offer protection. It was used in ancient times during purification ceremonies.
- Sacrality: The plant is mentioned in the Bible and is often connected with sacredness and cleanliness, particularly in religious contexts.
WaterThe Hummingbird mint should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become dry between waterings as it prefers well-drained soil conditions. Typically, watering once a week with about one inch of water should suffice, but this can vary depending on the climate and soil conditions. During the hot summer months or in dry climates, check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce the frequency of watering in the cooler months to prevent overwatering which can lead to root rot. It is best to water this plant at the soil level to avoid wetting the foliage, as it can be prone to fungal diseases if the leaves remain damp for too long.
LightThe Hummingbird mint thrives best in full sun to part shade. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily; however, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent stress. The ideal spot would be an area that receives morning sun and partial shade in the hottest part of the afternoon.
TemperatureThe Hummingbird mint does well in a wide range of temperatures, generally between 50°F to 90°F. It can survive temperature dips down to about 10°F, making it tolerant of cold in many growing zones. The ideal growing temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F, which promote healthy growth and blooming.
PruningPrune the Hummingbird mint to encourage bushier growth, remove any spindly stems, and promote more flowers. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Deadheading spent blooms during the flowering season will also help to encourage additional blooming. Pruning can be done every year or as needed when the plant appears to require shaping or rejuvenation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHummingbird mint prefers well-draining soil enriched with compost or other organic matter. A good mix might include one part garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part sharp sand or perlite to improve drainage. It thrives best in a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Amend soil with lime if too acidic or sulfur if too alkaline to reach the desired pH level.
RepottingHummingbird mint does not require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2-3 years. Repotting should occur in the spring, just before new growth begins. If the plant becomes root-bound or the soil is exhausted, it's time to repot.
Humidity & MistingHummingbird mint prefers low to moderate humidity levels and is quite tolerant of dry air, making it suitable for most indoor environments. It does not require high humidity to thrive; ambient room humidity is generally adequate for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
6-10 USDA
Life cycleAgastache aurantiaca 'Apricot Sprite', commonly known as Apricot Sprite Hyssop, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in early spring, either indoors or directly into a garden bed after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds germinate in warm soil, typically within 1 to 3 weeks, after which seedlings emerge and establish a root system. As they grow, these young plants develop a rosette of leaves and then a sturdy stem, eventually maturing into bushy perennial herbs that reach up to 24 inches tall. During the summer, Apricot Sprite Hyssop produces vividly colored, apricot-orange tubular flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After the flowering period, the plant sets seed, which can be collected for propagation or left to self-sow. The plant becomes dormant during the winter months, with the roots surviving underground to regenerate in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Agastache aurantiaca 'Apricot Sprite', commonly known as the Hummingbird Mint, can be propagated most effectively through seed sowing. The best time for sowing seeds is in late winter to early spring, when they can be started indoors under grow lights or on a bright windowsill. To propagate, fill a tray or pots with a well-draining soil mix and scatter the small seeds on the surface, then lightly press them into the soil without covering them as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. If conditions are ideal, which include temperatures around 70°F (21°C), germination should occur within 2-4 weeks. After the seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
