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Hyssop

Hyssop is an aromatic herb, usually referring to *Hyssopus officinalis*, in the mint family (Lamiaceae).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Hyssop is an aromatic herb, usually referring to *Hyssopus officinalis*, in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is grown for its scented leaves and flowers and has been used in cooking, traditional herbal medicine, and ornamentally. The plant is native to parts of southern Europe and western Asia and is now naturalized in North America.

Description

Hyssop is a compact, shrubby herb with aromatic foliage and blue, pink, or white flowers. It is described as evergreen or semi-evergreen depending on climate and cultivation conditions.

Distribution and habitat

The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and adjacent parts of Asia, and it has become naturalized in North America. It is commonly grown in herb gardens and as an ornamental.

Uses

Hyssop has been used as a culinary flavouring, in beverages, and in traditional medicine. It is also cultivated for its scent and decorative flowers.

Botanical classification

Hyssop belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. The name most often refers to *Hyssopus officinalis*, though other plants are sometimes called hyssop in common usage.

Key facts

  • Hyssop is an aromatic member of the mint family.
  • It is grown for its leaves and flowers, which have a sweet scent and bitter taste.
  • The species most commonly called hyssop is *Hyssopus officinalis*.
  • It is native to southern Europe and parts of western to central Asia.
  • Hyssop has long been used as a flavouring and in folk medicine.
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Canadian context

Hyssop is grown in Canadian herb gardens and ornamental plantings, and related species such as anise hyssop are native to parts of Canada and widely planted there.

Frequently asked questions

What is hyssop?
Hyssop usually refers to *Hyssopus officinalis*, an aromatic herb in the mint family grown for its foliage and flowers.
Where is hyssop native to?
It is native to southern Europe, the northern Mediterranean, and parts of western and central Asia.
How is hyssop used?
Hyssop has been used as a culinary herb, in beverages, as an ornamental plant, and in traditional folk medicine.
Is hyssop the same as anise hyssop?
No. Anise hyssop is a different plant, *Agastache foeniculum*, though both are in the mint family.
How tall does hyssop grow?
It commonly grows to about 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) tall.
Does hyssop grow in North America?
Yes. It has become naturalized in parts of North America and is also widely cultivated.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/hyssop
    Supports: Definition, family, uses, native range, and naturalization of hyssop.
  2. Missouri Botanical Garden — https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b939
    Supports: Growth form, height, ornamental use, and native/naturalized range.
  3. Plants For A Future — https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Hyssopus+officinalis
    Supports: Edibility, aromatic character, culinary uses, and cultivation as a herb.
  4. University of Wisconsin Extension — https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/anise-hyssop-agastache-foeniculum/
    Supports: Distinction between hyssop and anise hyssop; Canadian range for anise hyssop.