Agastache: A Colourful Favourite for UK Gardens

Agastache: A Colourful Favourite for UK Gardens

Agastache, also known as hyssop or hummingbird mint, is a stunning perennial that adds vibrant colour and fragrance to your garden. Loved by pollinators and gardeners alike, it’s easy to grow and maintain with the right care.

Does Agastache Come Back Each Year?

Yes! Agastache is a herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back in winter and regrows in spring. With proper care and protection during colder months, it will return year after year.

Is Agastache Hardy in the UK?

Agastache is generally hardy in most parts of the UK, especially varieties like Agastache ‘Blue Fortune’. However, in colder regions or during harsh winters, it benefits from a layer of mulch for extra protection.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Agastache?

Agastache thrives in:

• Full Sun: At least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Well-Drained Soil: Avoid heavy clay; sandy or loamy soil is ideal.
• Sheltered Spots: Protect from strong winds for best growth.

Does Agastache Spread?

Agastache forms clumps and can spread gradually, but it’s not invasive. You can divide mature plants every few years to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Do I Cut Back Agastache in the Autumn?

Yes, but timing matters:

• After Flowering: Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
• Late Autumn: Cut stems down to about 10–15 cm above ground once foliage dies back.
• Winter Protection: Apply mulch to protect roots from frost.

What Pairs Well with Agastache?

Agastache looks stunning alongside:

• Echinacea (Coneflowers): Complementary colours and similar care needs.
• Salvia: Adds texture and attracts pollinators.
• Lavender: Perfect for a fragrant, drought-tolerant border.
• Rudbeckia: Bright yellow blooms contrast beautifully with Agastache’s purple tones.

Extra Tips for Success

• Water regularly during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.
• Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming.
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring for vigorous growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Agastache

1. Does Agastache come back each year?

Yes, Agastache is a perennial plant, so it will return every year if cared for properly. It dies back in winter and regrows in spring.

2. Is Agastache hardy in the UK?

Most Agastache varieties are hardy in the UK, especially in well-drained soil. In colder regions, protect the roots with mulch during winter.

3. Where is the best place to plant Agastache?

Plant Agastache in full sun with well-drained soil. A sheltered spot away from strong winds is ideal for healthy growth.

4. Does Agastache spread?

Agastache forms clumps and spreads slowly, but it’s not invasive. You can divide mature plants every few years to keep them neat.

5. Do I cut back Agastache in the autumn?

Yes, cut back stems to about 10–15 cm above ground after the foliage dies back in late autumn. Mulch for winter protection.

6. What pairs well with Agastache?

Agastache pairs beautifully with Echinacea, Salvia, Lavender, and Rudbeckia for a vibrant, pollinator-friendly border.