Mexican giant hyssop
Agastache mexicana

Family: Lamiaceae

What it is like

A perennial plant. It can be grown as an annual. It grows up to 80 cm tall and spreads to 30 cm wide. It has creeping roots. The leaves are sword shaped and have teeth long the edge. The flower spikes are 30 cm long. The flowers are pink or red.

There are about 20-30 Agastache species.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate to tropical plant. It does best in a sheltered sunny position. It needs well-drained soil. It is resistant to drought but sensitive to frost. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Central America, Mexico, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The young leaves and flowers are used as flavouring. They are added to salads. The leaves can be used to make a herbal tea.

It is a cultivated food plant.

Edible parts

Leaves, spice, flowers, leaves - tea

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. They should just be covered with soil and germinate in 1-3 months at 13°C. They should be grown in the nursery for the first year. Plants can also be grown by dividing clumps and can be grown from basal cuttings. These root in 3 weeks.

Its other names

Local names

Mexican Hyssop, Mexican Lemon Hyssop, Lemon licorice mint

Synonyms

Brittonastrum mexicanum (Kunth) Briq.; Cedronella mexicana (Kunth) Benth.; Dracocephalum mexicanum Kunth;