Agastache rupestris

The queen of the flowering hyssops, this southwestern native is one of the best for garden culture. Very light textured gray/green leaves with a lovely aromatic fragrance provide a great backdrop to the flowers which emerge light orange and then "change" to light purple. The bicolor effect is a knockout. Well drained soil in full sun to very light shade with occasional summer water.

This uncommon Chinese Hyssop has 3-4"spikes of small rose-violet flowers atop 1-3' stems of fragrant foliage. Sun/Med

Bold brushes of sunset-orange flowers from August to frost. Native to high mountains of the Southwest, the whole plant exudes a rich, root beer aroma. An exotic contribution to water-smart gardens or perennial borders. Perennial. Xeriscape. Ordinary to poor soil. USDA zones 4b-10 (up to 7,000').

I really like Agastaches ("Hyssop" of "Licorice Mint") but alas, they too often peter out after only one season. This really beautiful Southwestern Agastache does not! It makes a perfect bushy form about 2' tall by 2' wide and blooms mid-Summer thru fall with a multitude of apricot and pinky-purple spikes. The foliage is also extremely ornamental and fragrant with thread-like grey-green leaves, giving the entire plant a soft, wispy look. The nectar rich flowers are much loved by hummingbirds! It prefers a not too rich, well-drained soil. A 1997 Plant Select winner.

Don't cruise by the species without giving them thought. Given good drainage and a sunny spot this orange flowered species is a trouper 16 x 16 inches.