Growing Agastache (Hummingbird Mint): Heat-Tolerant, Long-Blooming Perennials

Growing Agastache (Hummingbird Mint)

Pronunciation: uh-gas'tuh-kee

Agastache includes about 30 aromatic species native to central/eastern Asia, Mexico, and the US. Careful breeding yields exceptional garden performance and long bloom season. In full sun and well-drained soil, they shrug off summer heat and early frosts.

Light and Watering

Full sun. Some afternoon shade protects yellow-foliaged varieties.

Fertilizer, Soil, and pH

Average garden soil with good drainage. Do not fertilize first spring after planting; in subsequent years, fertilize once in early spring with 10-10-10 or a layer of well-rotted compost. Acid to neutral pH.

Pests and Diseases

Few insect problems. Mildew can affect leaves in dry summer weather. Deer generally avoid Agastache (Mint family).

Companions

Good partners: Milkweed (Asclepias), grasses (Festuca), Yarrow (Achillea), Gaillardia, Russian Sage (Perovskia). Bushier varieties hold their own in sunny borders.

Dividing and Transplanting

Divide in spring if plant outgrows space; plant crown at soil level.

Calendar of Care

Early Spring: Remove winter cover gradually. Cut back old stems; divide large clumps. Apply balanced 10-10-10 or 1–2 inch compost layer (keep away from crown).

End-of-Season: Cut stems back halfway to protect from winter winds.