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Agastache

Agastache is a genus of aromatic flowering herbaceous perennials in the mint family (Lamiaceae), commonly known as hummingbird mint or giant hyssop.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Agastache is a genus of aromatic flowering herbaceous perennials in the mint family (Lamiaceae), commonly known as hummingbird mint or giant hyssop. The genus includes about 22 species, mostly native to North America, with one group native to Asia. Many species are grown as ornamentals for their colourful flower spikes and nectar-rich blooms.

Description

Agastache species are aromatic perennials with upright stems, opposite leaves, and dense terminal spikes of tubular flowers. Flower colours vary by species and cultivar, commonly including blue, purple, pink, orange, red, white, and yellow.

Distribution and habitat

Most species are native to North America, with the greatest concentration in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. One source also notes a separate Asian group, and some species are cultivated outside their native range as ornamentals. Some species, especially anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum), are native to parts of Canada.

Uses in horticulture

Agastache is widely grown in perennial borders, herb gardens, butterfly gardens, and xeriscapes. The plants are valued for long bloom periods, drought tolerance in many species, and their ability to attract pollinators.

Taxonomy and name

Agastache is a genus in the family Lamiaceae. The genus name is derived from Greek and is commonly interpreted as referring to abundant flower spikes. Common names include hummingbird mint, giant hyssop, and Hyssop.

Key facts

  • Agastache belongs to the mint family and has aromatic foliage and square stems.
  • The genus is made up of herbaceous perennial plants.
  • Most species are native to North America, especially the southwestern United States and Mexico.
  • The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
  • The genus name comes from Greek and refers to the plant’s abundant flower spikes.
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Canadian context

Some Agastache species, especially anise hyssop (*Agastache foeniculum*), are native to parts of Canada and are grown in Canadian gardens for ornamental use and pollinator support.

Frequently asked questions

What is Agastache?
Agastache is a genus of aromatic flowering perennial plants in the mint family.
What are the common names for Agastache?
Common names include hummingbird mint, giant hyssop, and hyssop.
Where are Agastache species native to?
Most species are native to North America, especially the southwestern United States and Mexico, with one group native to Asia.
Why is Agastache popular in gardens?
It is popular for its colourful flower spikes, aromatic foliage, and its value to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
How many species are in Agastache?
Sources in the provided results place the genus at about 22 species, though some horticultural sources describe more than 30 depending on classification.
Is anise hyssop part of Agastache?
Yes. Anise hyssop is the common name of Agastache foeniculum.

References

  1. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/agastache/
    Supports: Genus description, family, approximate species count, native range, and Greek name origin.
  2. Wisconsin Horticulture — https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/anise-hyssop-agastache-foeniculum/
    Supports: Canadian range for *Agastache foeniculum*, plant type, hardiness, and common names.
  3. UC ANR — https://ucanr.edu/node/125105/printable/print
    Supports: Pollinator value, flower traits, and garden uses.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agastache
    Supports: General genus overview, species count, and native range context.