Hyssop Companion Plants
- Herbs. Consider pairing your hyssop with other herbs like lavender, rosemary, or sage. Not only will they grow in a...
- Cabbage. If you are trying to grow vegetables in your garden, consider adding hyssop around your cabbages. This plant...
- Grape Vines. If you are growing grapes in your garden, you might benefit from using hyssops as companion...
What can I plant with hyssop?
Companion planting: Grow hyssop with lavender, rosemary, garlic chives, and catmint. Hyssop repels flea beetles and other pests; it lures cabbage moths so it can be used as a trap plant.
Can you grow hyssop hydroponically?
It also does well in hydroponic gardens. Growing hyssop doesn’t require fertilizer. You can work in some well-rotted compost to the soil when you plant if you want to give plants a boost. Hyssop has a height of 24-36 inches and spreads quickly, so keep it pruned back if it gets too crowded.
What are the different hyssop varieties?
It grows in USDA zones 2 to 8. Korean hyssop, sometimes referred to as Korean mint, is similar to anise hyssop. It’s a tall cultivar and gets up to five feet in height. It’s also slightly hardier than anise hyssop. It does well in southern states and in USDA zones 5 to 10. Mexican hyssop is an excellent variety for attracting pollinators.
Can you eat hyssop flowers?
The flowers are edible and used to give flavor and color to drinks, soups, salads, and desserts. The leaves have a sweet, licorice-mint flavor and can be used as a substitute for anise seed in cooking. Not as hardy as true hyssop, it’s considered a tender perennial.
What can I plant with blue hyssop?
Hyssop is right at home in the ornamental garden. Its deep green foliage and dark-blue flower spikes are a delight in mid-summer, when many other plants are looking beat from the heat. Extremely attractive to bees and butterflies, it is a wonderful companion plant to pink and orange Agastache.
Do hyssop plants spread?
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a member of the mint family and you'll want to make room for it in your herb garden this year. Don't worry, although it is related to mint, and it does spread, it spreads at a much slower rate than the mints you might be familiar with.
Does hyssop like sun or shade?
Hyssop prefers full sun to partial shade and dry, well-drained soil. Prior to planting, work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or aged animal manure.
What insects does hyssop repel?
Hyssop deters cabbage moths and flea beetles. Do not plant near radishes. It may be the number one preference among bees, and some beekeepers rub the hive with it to encourage the bees to keep to their home. Grow it around the house and garden to keep bugs away.
Is hyssop toxic to dogs?
Hyssop oil is toxic to dogs and other animals when ingested. It is used topically to prevent Lyme disease in dogs when applied to tick bites. Consuming the plant in large doses can cause respiratory tract irritation and seizures.
Is lavender and hyssop the same?
Like lavender, Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a perennial that belongs to the mint and sage family (Lamiaceae) – mostly aromatic perennial herbs. Hyssop has many similarities to lavender. The leaf shape, in particular, is quite similar but the leaf color is greener than lavenders'.
Should I cut back hyssop?
Herbaceous plants do best if trimmed back in early spring just as new growth is about to appear. Anise hyssop can also be deadheaded and shaped lightly from spring until mid-summer. Suspend any trimming thereafter, as it may force tender, new growth that can be damaged when cool weather appears.
How far apart should I plant hyssop?
6-12"Hyssop - Key Growing Information SOWING: Direct seed (recommended): In spring, direct seed about 1/4" deep, one seed per inch in rows 18" apart. Plants should eventually be given 6-12" spacing. Transplant: Sow several seeds 1/4" deep in flats in early spring.
Do you cut back hyssop in the fall?
1. Prune hyssop any time from early spring to midsummer. Do not prune the plants after late summer because this will cause new growth to emerge late in the season, and it can be damaged in the first autumn frost.
Do slugs eat hyssop?
As I said anything with aromatic foliage is always a good choice as a slug resistant plant. Agastache foeniculum, the giant hyssop, is becoming more and more popular as a border perennial and for use with grasses in prairie schemes.
Does hyssop come back every year?
Agastache (aka Anise Hyssop) is a tender perennial with aromatic leaves and colorful flower spikes all summer long. While traditional varieties have blue or purple colored flowers, newer varieties feature bold colors such as red and orange. In warm climates, it comes back consistently each year.
Does hyssop attract bugs?
The beautiful, long-blooming flowers of anise hyssop attract many beneficial insects in search of nectar. This perennial herb also hosts many insects in search of shelter in its foliage.
Does hyssop come back every year?
Agastache (aka Anise Hyssop) is a tender perennial with aromatic leaves and colorful flower spikes all summer long. While traditional varieties have blue or purple colored flowers, newer varieties feature bold colors such as red and orange. In warm climates, it comes back consistently each year.
Can you divide hyssop?
Large, mature plants may be divided in the spring. On a cool day, or early in the morning, use a shovel to dig up the fibrous root ball and divide it in half, or into three pieces. Replant the parent plant. Dig a hole the size of the root ball of each division, and loosen the soil on the bottom before planting.
Is Giant Hyssop invasive?
Is Anise Hyssop invasive or does it spread? Anise Hyssop is not invasive, but will spread by self-seeding locally. I've been growing Anise Hyssop for several years. I've had my plants expand in size and self-seed, but I've not had them spread via rhizomes.
How fast does hyssop grow?
Hyssop seeds usually take between 14 and 21 days to germinate and can be transplanted (if sown indoors) in the garden after the threat of frost has ended in spring. Space hyssop plants about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm.) apart.
Where does Mexican Hyssop grow?
Mexican hyssop is an excellent variety for attracting pollinators. It’s sometimes referred to as Mexican giant hyssop because it grows over three feet tall. This variety is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and likes dry sandy soil. It doesn’t do as well in northern zones because it prefers warm areas. Grows in zones 6 through 9.
What is a rock hyssop?
Rock hyssop is a cultivar of common hyssop. The big difference is that its much lower-growing. It’s popular as a landscape specimen and looks beautiful in rock gardens and along the edges of pathways. It pairs nicely with creeping thyme. Rock hyssop does well in USDA zones 3 through 9.
What plants repel cabbage worms?
Plant it with brassicas to repel cabbage worms and flea beetles. Anise hyssop is supposed to have particularly excellent repellent qualities. It also grows well with grapes. This video talks about how useful hyssop is as a plant for pollinators and talks about a couple of the different varieties.
What is a yellow giant hyssop?
Yellow giant hyssop is a scentless variety that is tall and produces yellow flower spikes that are mulch bulkier than common or anise hyssops. This cultivar is mentioned in the video below and has done well in trials. It grows in USDA zones 2 to 8.
Why is hyssop hung on doors?
Hyssop was often scattered on the floor of sick rooms. In Puritan England, it was hung on doors to keep away witches. Today, hyssop is recognized for potentially having many health benefits. It’s used to soothe indigestion and gas as well as problems with the liver and gall bladder, and to ease menstrual cramps.
How tall is Korean Hyssop?
Korean Hyssop ( Agastache rugosa) Korean hyssop, sometimes referred to as Korean mint, is similar to anise hyssop. It’s a tall cultivar and gets up to five feet in height. It’s also slightly hardier than anise hyssop. It does well in southern states and in USDA zones 5 to 10.
What is the most underrated herb in the garden?
Hyssop may be the most underrated herb in the garden. Growing hyssop gives your medicine shelf and meal routine a boost. As if that weren’t enough, the hardy herb enhances your flower beds with its delicate pink, blue, white, and yellow flowers that are irresistible to pollinators. The flowers arrive in late summer and fall, ...
What to mix with hyssop?
Mix hyssop with one of the sweeter mints, such as spearmint, or a more lemony mint-like lemon balm. Leaves: Toss small amounts of fresh or dried hyssop leaves into salads, soups, stews, casseroles, stuffing, poultry dishes, or roasted meat for a warm sage-mint flavor.
How to grow Hyssop from seed?
Seed: Hyssop is easy to grow from seed; it readily self-sows. Cuttings: Plants can be started from 6-inch long stem cuttings; dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in organic potting soil. Division: Divide plant in spring or gall. Plant 4 to 6 inches long root divisions at the same depth they were growing.
What is hyssop used for?
Hyssop is a member of the mint family. It can be used much like mint but its minty flavor is stronger than most mints so it should be used sparingly. Add hyssop to salads, fruit dishes—especially cranberries, soups, and stews.
How to store hyssop leaves?
Refrigeration: Fresh hyssop leaves can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days. Wrap leaves in a damp paper towel and place them inside a perforated plastic bag. Drying: Hang whole branches upside down to air dry.
How long does it take for hyssop to germinate?
Germination takes about 14 days. Transplanting to the garden: Transplant hyssop outdoors in mid- to late spring after the last frost. Outdoor planting time: Hyssop can be grown from seed, division, or stem cuttings. Sow seed outdoors after the last spring frost. Seeds also can also be sown in autumn.
How tall does a hyssop grow?
Plant form and size: Hyssop is a shrubby and sprawling evergreen plant that grows 18 to 24 inches tall and about 12 inches wide. Flowers: Hyssop has whorls of half-inch white, pink, purple to deep blue flowers (depending on variety); flowers grow on spikes similar ...
Where does Hyssop originate?
Get to Know Hyssop. Botanical name and family: Hyssopus officinalis is a member of the Lamiaceae—mint family. Origin: Southern Europe, the Middle East and the region surrounding the Caspian Sea. Type of plant: Hyssop is a semi-evergreen perennial. Growing season: Summer.
Cultivation and History
Hyssopus officinalis is native to the Mediterranean, including parts of southern Europe and western Asia.
Propagation
Hyssop is easy to propagate, whether by dividing mature plants, taking cuttings, or sowing seed. We’ll cover each of these options.
Pruning and Maintenance
Let the dried stems and leaves stand over the winter. Cut everything back to two inches from the ground in the spring, and again after flowering if you wish, to encourage a compact habit and to keep the plant from becoming spindly.
Varieties and Cultivars to Select
When searching for hyssop seeds or plants, make sure they are true H. officinalis, not anise hyssop! Both are beautiful but they are completely different plants.
Managing Pests and Disease
Thanks to the aromatic oils this plant contains, it naturally repels most pest insects. It will even help to keep pests such as cabbage moth larvae, flea beetles, and slugs away from nearby plants.
Harvesting and Preserving
Harvest leaves from your plant before it blooms, preferably in the morning just after the dew dries for the best taste. These are best used fresh, but they may be dried and frozen to use later too.
Recipes and Cooking Ideas
The foliage can be used to flavor marinades, meats, soups, sauces, salads, and stews. Use it like rosemary, but be aware that it is quite a strong herb despite its sweet scent – a little bit can have a big impact!
Where to grow hyssop
Hyssop works well in borders and as an edging plant. It will also grow well in a pot – just make sure the pot is large enough to contain its large root system.
How to care for hyssop
Prune hyssop plants as growth starts in early spring, to encourage the plants to bush out.
How to propagate hyssop
It’s easy to grow hyssop from seed – simply sow indoors or directly into the ground after the last frost. Seeds will take 14-21 days to germinate. You can also take softwood cuttings in summer.
How to harvest and store hyssop
It’s best to use hyssop leaves when fresh but you can also dry or freeze them. Harvest the leaves in the morning, after any dew has dried. Cut stems of leaves and gather into bunches, hang in a dark and well ventilated area. You can also strip the leaves from their stems, place in a plastic bag and freeze.
How to grow hyssop from seed?
How to Plant Hyssop Seed. The most common way to plant hyssop is by sowing seeds. Sow hyssop seeds indoors or directly in the garden about eight to 10 weeks before the last frost. Plant hyssop just beneath the soil’s surface or about a quarter inch (0.6 cm.) deep. Hyssop seeds usually take between 14 and 21 days to germinate ...
What is hyssop in the garden?
Printer Friendly Version. Image by peganum. Hyssop ( Hysoppus officinalis) is an attractive flowering herb commonly grown for its flavorful leaves. Growing a hyssop plant is easy and makes a lovely addition to the garden.
How long does it take for hyssop to germinate?
Hyssop seeds usually take between 14 and 21 days to germinate and can be transplanted (if sown indoors) in the garden after the threat of frost has ended in spring. Space hyssop plants about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm.) apart.
What color are hyssop plants?
Growing a hyssop plant is easy and makes a lovely addition to the garden. The spikes of blue, pink, or red flowers are great for attracting important pollinators to the landscape as well.
How to harvest hyssop?
When harvesting a hyssop plant , cut it in the morning hours once any dew has dried. Hang the plants upside down in small bunches to dry in a dark, well-ventilated area. Alternatively, you can place the leaves in a plastic bag after removing them from the stems and place in the freezer until ready to use. When you grow hyssop as a garden plant, trim ...
Can hyssop be divided?
In some areas, however, hyssop plants will self-seed readily. In addition, the plants can be divided in fall.
Can hyssop be grown in containers?
Hyssop makes a great edging plant when grown in masses as well, but did you know that hyssop plants can also be grown in containers? When you grow hyssop in containers, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the large root systems. Hyssop plants prefer to be grown in areas with full sun or partial shade.
What is hyssop essential oil used for?
An essential oil from hyssop can also be used in food flavouring. Commonly, hyssop is used in meat or oily fish dishes. It is said to aid in the digestion of fatty, rich foods. However, it can also be used in a range of vegetarian or vegan dishes, either fresh or dried.
How big does a hyssop get?
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a small, compact evergreen shrub that grows to an eventual size of around 60cm wide and 60cm high. It grows at a medium rate and can work well in a range of settings. This plant is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint family.
What is a good plant for a garden?
Hyssop is a plant that can be an ideal addition to many different types of garden. It can often be a good choice for the sunny fringes of a forest garden. This plant also works well in dedicated herb gardens, alongside other Mediterranean herbs like lavender, rosemary and thyme.
Is hyssop beneficial to plants?
Hyssop Attracts Many Pollinators and Other Beneficial Insects. Hyssop won’t only be beneficial to plants grown nearby due to its ground covering or edging properties. It can also be hugely beneficial in a garden because it is such a great wildlife plant. Hyssop is a fantastic plant for wildlife friendly gardens.
Can hyssop be used for cabbage white butterflies?
Another interesting thing about hyssop is that, like other aromatic herbs, it can also repel, distract or confuse a range of pest species. One example of this is that hyssop can be used as a trap crop for cabbage white butterflies.
Can hyssop be used in the garden?
Finally, hyssop can also be of use back in the garden. Fresh hyssop brewed into a tea and sprayed onto plants is said to be helpful in controlling bacterial diseases in plants. So brewing up a tea could help keep your crops healthy. By now, you should be convinced of the benefits of growing hyssop in your garden.
Is hyssop a drought tolerant plant?
Hyssop is a Great Drought-Tolerant Plant. Perhaps the number one reason to grow hyssop in your garden is for its drought-tolerant characteristics. We should all be gardening with our climates in mind. And for many gardeners, that means taking low rainfall and relatively arid conditions into account.
Quick Care Guide
The hyssop plant is an incredible pollinator and food plant. Source: Melanie Shaw
All About The Hyssop Plant
Bees are drawn to hyssop and will make beautiful hyssop honey. Source: Melanie Shaw
Planting Hyssop
Plant hyssop outside in spring after the last frost date. Choose a location in full sun or partial shade with rich, well-drained soil. Hyssop grows well in the ground as part of a border planting scheme, in a raised herb bed, and even a rockery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hyssopus officinalis has a dwarfing cultivar that stays compact. Source: peganum
How to grow anise hyssop?
Plant Anise Hyssop in spring after the last frost. Establish seedlings any time until early summer. Space 18 to 24 inches apart in borders, wildflower gardens, herb gardens, or butterfly gardens (or as specimens in containers). Reaching 2 to 5 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide, these plants serve well in the middle or the back of perennial borders. Pair with companions such as Japanese anemones, other natives such as biennial brown-eyed Susan ( Rudbeckia triloba ), goldenrods such as Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks,’ or with fellow herbs like garlic, chives, oregano, and thyme .
What is a hyssop?
Stemming from a long history of medicinal use by Native Americans, Anise Hyssop is a versatile, aromatic, culinary, healing herb. It has many uses in the garden and the kitchen. The flowers' nectar attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Meanwhile, birds tend to eat any seeds left on the stalks toward the end of fall. Both flowers and leaves offer an intense licorice scent and taste. Crumble aromatic leaves in salads, use them to make jellies, steep them in herbal tea (as the Cheyenne tribe has done to relieve depression), or incorporate them in potpourris. Sprinkle seeds in cookie, muffin, or biscotti mix; dried leaves can be used as a seed substitute for similar licorice flavor. Fresh flowers make interesting additions to bouquets. Hang these blooming spikes upside down or let them dry naturally on the plant to add to dried floral arrangements .
What does Anise Hyssop smell like?
Instead, Anise Hyssop leaves emit a scent more similar to basil or French tarragon. Unscented flower spikes are typically blue-lavender to purple, depending on the variety, on upright stems adorned with dull green leaves. Each leaf is four inches long with toothed margins akin to the aesthetic of common mint.
How tall does Blue Blazes anise hyssop grow?
Plants grow about 3 feet tall and not as bushy as some other kinds of anise hyssop. 'Black Adder’ has dark buds and red-violet flowers. It grows less quickly and robustly than other species. ‘Blue Blazes’ is a tall hybrid of A. foeniculum and Agastache ‘Desert Sunrise.’.
What can I use dried licorice leaves for?
Sprinkle seeds in cookie, muffin, or biscotti mix; dried leaves can be used as a seed substitute for similar licorice flavor.
How to keep a plant alive in winter?
Avoid heavy clay, which can cause drainage problems that may lead to root rot. Maintain a pH that is close to neutral and add lime to acidic soils . Dry to medium moisture is best; established plants can usually tolerate dry soils. Winter survival depends on the soil draining well and remaining relatively dry.
What are the different types of Agastache?
Varieties. There are many types of Agastache, the genus representing 30 different plants, each with varied flower colors, heights, foliage, aroma, and hardiness. Bloom colors of various hybrid varieties range from pink to creamy white, powder blue to red-violet. Foliage can be dark green to lime green.
Growing Hyssop
Hyssop Companion Planting
- Companion planting hyssop helps cabbage, cauliflower and grapes. Hyssop is particularly helpful to grapes as it stimulates their growth. Conversely, planting brussels sprouts near hyssop will be beneficial to the growth of your hyssop plants. On the other hand, companion planting hyssop with radishes is a bad idea.
Hyssop & Insects
- Hyssop is a particular favorite of honeybees. Rubbing a beehive with hyssop will help bees find and return to the hive. Butterflies are also quite fond of hyssop. A number of harmful insects detest hyssop. In what would seem to be a contradiction, hyssop appears to repel harmful butterflies like cabbage butterflies and white butterflies and also repels the cabbage moth larva…
Additional Hyssop Information
- (Hyssopus officinalis, Linn.) To learn more about growing hyssopbe sure to check out our hyssop fact sheet. Hyssop has a long and interesting history that dates back to Biblical times. Learn more on our hyssop historypage.