Hyssop Agastache 'Summer Glow'
ABOUT
The Agastache 'Summer Glow,' more commonly known as Giant Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint, is a perennial plant cherished for its ornamental appeal and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This plant features a bushy clump of green foliage, from which tall, upright stems emerge. These stems are adorned with tubular flowers that are a captivating shade of soft, pale yellow, exuding a warm and luminous effect that resembles the glow of summer sunshine. The leaves of the plant are lance-shaped with a slightly serrated edge, and they release a pleasant fragrance when crushed or brushed against, contributing to the sensorial charm of the plant. The blossoming period is long, usually extending through the warmer months, and offering a continual display of its attractive flowers that are densely packed in showy spike-like inflorescences atop the stems. The overall appearance of Agastache 'Summer Glow' is characterized by its vibrant color and inviting texture, making it a standout addition to gardens and landscape designs seeking a touch of brightness and a haven for beneficial wildlife.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Anise Hyssop, Hummingbird Mint, Giant Hyssop
Common names
Agastache 'Summer Glow'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Agastache 'Summer Glow' is not generally considered toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not result in poisoning or adverse health effects. However, it is always prudent when dealing with plants to avoid ingestion if unsure and to be aware of individual allergies that could potentially cause reactions.
To pets
Agastache 'Summer Glow' is typically non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. This means that ingestion of this plant does not usually lead to symptoms of poisoning in pets. Nonetheless, it's always advisable to monitor pets around plants, as individual animals might have different sensitivities or could have gastrointestinal upset from ingesting plant material they are not accustomed to.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Agastache 'Summer Glow' is popular among bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which help pollinate your garden.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering in suitable climates.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a lengthy blooming period, providing vibrant color from midsummer to early fall.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal upkeep beyond the initial planting and establishment phase.
- Deer Resistance: 'Summer Glow' is typically resistant to deer, reducing the likelihood of damage from wildlife.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves of the plant give off a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed.
- Ornamental Value: With its bright flowers and attractive foliage, it adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Edible Flowers: The flowers are edible and can be used to add color and flavor to salads and other dishes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Agastache 'Summer Glow', commonly known as Hummingbird Mint, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics; the leaves and flowers may create subtle yellow to green hues.
- The dried leaves and flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a minty, anise-scented aroma that freshens up interior spaces.
- Culinary artists sometimes use the colorful flowers as edible decorations to embellish salads, desserts, and cocktails with a hint of minty flavor.
- Gardeners may plant Hummingbird Mint as a companion plant since its strong scent can help repel certain pests from more vulnerable plants.
- Incorporate Agastache 'Summer Glow' in your compost pile as a "green" material which can help speed up the composting process due to its high nitrogen content.
- The leaves of the Hummingbird Mint can be steeped in vinegar to create a fragrant household cleaner with natural antibacterial properties.
- The plant can be processed to extract essential oils, which might then be used in aromatherapy diffusers for a soothing, stress-relieving ambience.
- Hummingbird Mint can be used for educational purposes in schools and botanical gardens to teach about pollinator-friendly plants and the importance of biodiversity.
- Crafty individuals may use the stems and flowers to create natural bookmarks by pressing them and embedding them into handmade paper.
- Farmers can grow Agastache 'Summer Glow' as cover crops to manage soil erosion, improve soil health, and enhance the microecosystem in their fields.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Agastache is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Agastache is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction - Agastache, commonly known as "Hummingbird Mint" or "Hyssop," is known to attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, symbolizing allure and magnetism.
- Healing - Hyssop has a long history in medicinal use, symbolizing healing and medicinal properties.
- Protection - Historically, hyssop has been used in various cultures for protection against evil and negativity.
- Purification - Due to its clean, minty fragrance, hyssop is often associated with cleansing and purifying the soul and environment.
WaterThe Hummingbird Mint should be watered deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week during the growing season. During hot, dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary, such as twice a week. Provide enough water to soak the roots, using approximately 1 gallon for smaller plants and up to 2-3 gallons for larger, established plants. In cooler weather or when rainfall is abundant, reduce watering frequency. Always avoid over-watering as Hummingbird Mint prefers well-drained soil and does not do well with soggy feet.
LightHummingbird Mint thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for the plant would be an area that is exposed to the morning sun and protected from the harsh late afternoon sun if in extremely hot climates. However, it can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter regions, but blooming may be reduced.
TemperatureHummingbird Mint does best in temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it is generally grown as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 10. Ideally, maintain a temperature above freezing during the winter months to ensure the health of the plant.
PruningThe best time to prune Hummingbird Mint is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or damaged stems. Cut back the plant by about one-third annually, and deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming throughout the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Hyssop 'Summer Glow' should be well-drained and fertile with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.0. An ideal mix could be a combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and nutrient availability.
RepottingHyssop 'Summer Glow' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. This timing allows for fresh soil and additional room for root growth without causing unnecessary stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingHyssop 'Summer Glow' does well in average humidity conditions and does not have specific humidity requirements. It is adaptable to the natural humidity found in most outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect sunlight and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Provide full sun to partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-10 USDA
Life cycleAgastache 'Summer Glow', commonly known as Anise Hyssop, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in the spring after the last frost. The seeds germinate into small seedlings that require adequate sunlight and moist, well-draining soil to establish a robust root system. As it matures, the plant develops sturdy stems and foliage, with its leaves exuding a characteristic anise scent when crushed. During the summer, Anise Hyssop enters its flowering stage, producing vibrant yellow flower spikes that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After the flowering period, the plant sets seeds that can be collected for future propagation before it enters dormancy in fall or winter, depending on the climate. In colder regions, Anise Hyssop may die back to the ground, but it will typically re-emerge from its root system when the warmth of spring returns.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Agastache 'Summer Glow', commonly known as Hummingbird Mint or Hyssop, is by seed. Propagation by seeds for this perennial is commonly done in late winter to early spring. To propagate, seeds are sown thinly onto the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil but can be gently misted to ensure they are moist. They are then kept at room temperature, around 70°F (approximately 21°C), and in a spot with bright, indirect light. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. Seedlings are grown on in cooler conditions and should be transplanted to individual pots once they are large enough to handle before planting out after the danger of frost has passed.
