Anise Hyssop

From Hudson Valley Seed Company. Purchased in 2023.

Description and growing instructions below from Hudson Valley Seeds.

A versatile perennial herb that attracts pollinators.

Anise Hyssop is both a gorgeous, upright perennial and a delicious herb for teas, baking, or sitting near while reading a good book in the garden. It is native to North America, where it was used by native peoples to treat many ailments. Its aroma is indeed anise-like; a small handful of its leaves make a great addition to a salad, and when dried it can be used to season baked goods. The flowers are attractive to bees and hummingbirds, making Anise Hyssop one of the most useful plants of the garden.

Once established, its heavily-scented, slightly fuzzy purply-green leaves are some of the first to emerge in the spring. Foliage bears erect pink flowers that attract pollinators like no other, especially bees. A great choice for borders, flower gardens, cottage gardens and perennial herb gardens. A hardy perennial that self sows and comes back year after year. Simply harvest the flowers at their peak, dry thoroughly and store in an airtight container.

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS.

One of the easiest perennials to start from seed. Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last spring frost. Surface sow several seeds per 2" cell, press in and water lightly, taking care not to dislodge the seeds. Keep moist but not wet in a cool environment for germination. Once seeds emerge, keep plants at a steady temperature, and do not over-water, letting soil dry a bit between waterings. Once plants are 2-3" high and soil is warm and workable, plants an be transplanted outdoors. You can also let them grow and establish themselves and transplant once 4-6" high. Anise hyssop prefers warm, well-drained soil and will thrive in poor and rich soils alike. Also great in perennial container plantings.