New Mexico Giant Hyssop, Bill Williams Mountain giant hyssop
Agastache neomexicana

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Agastache neomexicana (Briq.) Standl. is a synonym of Agastache pallidiflora subsp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling

Agastache neomexicana is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 1.2

Where it is found

Not known

South-western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

North America, USA. UK (RHS).

How it is used

Food

Rating: 3

The highly aromatic young leaves are used as a flavouring in cooked dishes. The young leaves are used to make a herbal tea.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The dried and pulverized root has been used as a dusting powder for sores and cankers. The plant has been used in the treatment of fevers and bad coughs.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Salve: Soothes and heals damaged skin.

Other

Rating: 2

Attracts wildlife.

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The closely related A. pallidiflora (some authorities consider this species to be no more than a sub-species of A. pallidiflora) is hardy in the milder areas of the country The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a warm sunny sheltered position and a well-drained soil. Succeeds in most soils. The flowers are very attractive to bees.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 3 months at 13°c. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first year. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring. Fairly simple, if large divisions are used it is possible to plant them straight out into their permanent positions. Basal cuttings of young shoots in spring. Harvest the young shoots when they are about 10 - 15cm tall and pot them up in a lightly shaded position in a greenhouse. They should root within 3 weeks and can be planted out in the summer or following spring.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

New Mexico giant hyssop.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. pallidiflora neomexicana (Briq.)R.W.Sanders.