Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop
agastache urticifolia
Also known as: ["Giant Hyssop","Nettleleaf Hyssop"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, known for its aromatic foliage and spikes of small lavender flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Agastache |
| Botanical Name: | Agastache urticifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for xeric or semi-xeric conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if needed, but avoid heavy pruning during extreme weat
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues in shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter for nutrients; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers mild temperatures and can tolerate mild frosts.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems; also prune after flowering to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape the plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot or planting site to prevent waterlogging; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAgastache urticifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally considered safe for cats to consume or be exposed to.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAgastache urticifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is generally considered safe for dogs to consume or be exposed to.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAgastache urticifolia is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agastache urticifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is this plant?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
