Hummingbird Mint Agastache 'Firebird'
ABOUT
Agastache 'Firebird' is a captivating plant known for its vibrant and showy appearance. The standout feature of this plant is its spiky, tubular flowers that boast a fiery blend of colors, often resembling the warm shades of a flame with reds, oranges, and sometimes touches of pink. These flowers are densely packed into elongated flower spikes that rise elegantly above the foliage, presenting a striking display that is visually appealing to both gardeners and pollinators alike. The foliage of Firebird itself is also noteworthy, consisting of lance-shaped leaves that are often a bright, fresh green. These leaves release a pleasing fragrance when crushed or brushed against, adding another sensory layer to the plant's appeal. The contrast between the vivid flower spikes and the greenery creates a dramatic effect that makes Agastache 'Firebird' a focal point in any garden setting. The blossoms and leaves grow on sturdy stems that contribute to the plant's robust and upright posture. Overall, Agastache 'Firebird' presents a blend of fiery flower colors, fragrant and attractive foliage, and a consistent flowering display that can bring life and vibrancy to a garden throughout its blooming period.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Hyssop 'Firebird', Hummingbird Mint 'Firebird', Giant Hyssop 'Firebird'.
Common names
Agastache 'Firebird'
ToxicityTo humans
The Firebird Hyssop is not generally considered toxic to humans. The plant is actually used in some culinary applications and for herbal remedies, suggesting low toxicity. However, like with many plants, some individuals might experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have specific sensitivities. In case of accidental ingestion, if any adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal upset occur, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
The Firebird Hyssop is also not generally regarded as toxic to pets. It is not listed among the plants that are commonly known to be poisonous to animals such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of the plant, they may experience mild stomach upset, but serious toxicity is unlikely. However, it is always a good idea to monitor your pet and consult with a vet if any unusual symptoms arise after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange-red
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Agastache 'Firebird' is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing pollination in your garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has low water requirements and is suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is typically resistant to grazing by deer and rabbits, minimizing damage in your garden.
- Long Blooming Period: The Firebird variety offers a long season of vibrant, tubular flowers that add color to the garden from mid-summer to fall.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance, which makes it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves of the Firebird Agastache emit a pleasant fragrance that can add a layer of sensory enjoyment to your garden.
- Edible Flowers: The flowers are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish in salads or as an addition to various dishes.
- Landscape Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and as part of a herbaceous perennial bed.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: Agastache can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, yielding various shades of yellows and greens depending on the mordant used.
- Garden design and planning: The vibrant color and upright growth habit of 'Firebird' makes it an ideal plant for adding vertical interest in a perennial border.
- Container gardening: Due to its compact size, it's a suitable plant for container gardening, adding color and texture to balconies and patios.
- Wildlife habitat enhancement: It can provide nectar for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, enhancing biodiversity in gardens.
- Companion planting: 'Firebird' can be planted alongside vegetables to attract pollinators, aiding in the pollination of crops.
- Culinary decoration: The flowers of 'Firebird' are edible and can be used to add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Aromatherapy: Leaves of the 'Firebird' can be dried and used in potpourri mixes for a subtle, calming fragrance.
- Bouquet filler: Its long stems and spiky flowers make it a unique addition to cut flower arrangements or dried floral displays.
- Photography and painting subject: The plant's vibrant colors make it a great subject for botanical photography and paintings.
- Plant studies and education: 'Firebird' can be used in educational settings to study plant growth, pollination, and the attraction of pollinators.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enthusiasm: The 'Firebird' Agastache, with its vibrant red-orange flowers, symbolizes a zest for life and eagerness to participate in new experiences.
- Energy: Just like the mythical firebird, this plant represents dynamic energy and the power of rejuvenation and resilience.
- Warmth: The warm hues of the flowers convey a feeling of warmth and friendliness, often associated with a hospitable or warm-hearted person.
- Passion: The fiery color of the Agastache 'Firebird' is reminiscent of passion, suggesting intensity of feeling or strong emotion.
- Vitality: This plant's robust growth and bright flowers are often seen as a symbol of good health and vitality.
WaterThe Hummingbird Mint should be watered deeply once every week to ten days, allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out between waterings. It is essential to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. Generally, applying about one to two gallons of water per plant during each watering session will suffice. Always water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and prevent mildew or fungal diseases.
LightHummingbird Mint thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Planting it in an area that is south-facing will ensure it receives the maximum amount of sunlight. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent scorching.
TemperatureHummingbird Mint prefers warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 10. The plant can typically handle temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and can thrive in temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, it should be grown in an environment where the temperature ranges from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit to promote the best growth and flowering.
PruningHummingbird Mint can be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more prolific blooming. Prune or pinch back the stems in early spring to promote a more compact shape. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season can also encourage continued blooming. It is generally not necessary to prune more than one-third of the plant’s height.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Hummingbird Mint prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A soil mix containing equal parts garden soil, coarse sand or perlite, and organic compost is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Mulching with gravel can also help maintain soil moisture levels without waterlogging the roots.
RepottingThe Hummingbird Mint should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a new pot that is slightly larger and has good drainage holes, and repot in spring or early summer for best results.
Humidity & MistingHummingbird Mint thrives in moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and does well in average home humidity conditions. It is important to avoid excessively high humidity to prevent fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Hummingbird Mint in a sunny window.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-10 USDA
Life cycleAgastache 'Firebird', commonly known as Hummingbird Mint, begins its lifecycle as a seed which, once sown, germinates in a warm and moist environment. During the seedling stage, the plant develops its first leaves and roots as it emerges from the soil. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant grows rapidly, producing a rosette of leaves and stems that will support its future flowers. In the flowering stage, vibrant tubular flowers bloom, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees, which facilitate the plant’s reproduction. After pollination, the plant sets seeds that mature, eventually being dispersed to start a new generation. Finally, particularly in areas with harsh winters, the perennial plant may enter dormancy, retreating to its roots until conditions are favorable again for growth in the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Agastache 'Firebird', commonly known as the hummingbird mint, is through seed. Ideally, seeds should be sown in spring after the danger of frost has passed in your area. To propagate from seed, one needs to prepare a well-draining soil mix and scatter the seeds lightly on the surface, pressing them gently into the soil. Covering the seeds with a light layer of soil can help retain moisture and provide optimal germination conditions. These seeds typically require light to germinate, so they should not be buried deeply. Consistent moisture should be maintained until germination, which usually takes from 14 to 30 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves and are big enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their final growing location.
