Origin and Common Names
Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling var. havardii (Gray) Shinners is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, primarily in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Chihuahua. The plant is commonly known by several names, including Texas hummingbird mint, Havard's giant hyssops, and havard agastache.Uses
The plant has multiple uses, both medicinal and culinary. It has been traditionally used by Native American tribes to treat various ailments, such as stomach aches, toothaches, and colds. The leaves and flowers can also be brewed into tea, which has a soothing effect on the mind and body. In addition, Agastache breviflora var. havardii is valued by gardeners for its attractive appearance and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant's aromatic leaves and flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and as a component of mixed flower arrangements.General Appearance
Agastache breviflora var. havardii is a perennial herb that grows up to three feet tall and two feet wide. The plant has square stems and produces fragrant, bright green leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed around the edges. Throughout the summer, the plant produces numerous spikes of tubular flowers that measure around two inches long and are a bright pinkish-mauve color. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies and can remain in bloom for several weeks. The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained, sandy soil in full sun or partial shade.Light Requirements
Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling var. havardii (Gray) Shinners requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and flower adequately.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to North America and thrives in warm temperatures. Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling var. havardii (Gray) Shinners grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. The ideal temperature range for growing this plant is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with moderate moisture content. It grows well in sandy or loamy soils with pH levels ranging from neutral to slightly acidic. It can survive in poor soils but will grow better with the addition of organic matter. Soil that is too wet may cause root rot, so planting in raised beds or mounding soil can aid in drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Agastache breviflora var. havardii
Agastache breviflora var. havardii requires good drainage and thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil. It can be grown in containers or in the ground, and the ideal soil pH range is neutral to slightly alkaline. Planting can be done in spring or fall.
Watering Needs for Agastache breviflora var. havardii
This plant requires regular watering during its first growing season to establish itself. Once established, it is drought tolerant and only needs moderate watering. It is best to allow the soil to dry partially between watering to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization for Agastache breviflora var. havardii
The plant does not require excessive fertilization, but an organic fertilizer high in phosphorus can be added during planting or as a top dressing in spring. Nitrogen should be added sparingly as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Agastache breviflora var. havardii
Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season can encourage more blooms to form. Cutting back the plant in early spring can promote new growth and a fuller, bushier appearance. It can also be pruned to control its size and shape, but avoid cutting back too far into woody stems, which can harm the plant.
Propagation Methods for Agastache breviflora var. havardii
Agastache breviflora var. havardii, commonly known as Havard's hyssop, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is a popular garden plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant has an upright growth habit, a woody base, and slender stems that reach up to 2 feet in height. The flowers are tubular and range in color from pale lavender to pink-purple.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating A. breviflora var. havardii is by using seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors and transplanted later. Here are the steps for propagating the plant from seeds:
- Collect mature seeds from the plant after the flowers have faded and dried up.
- Clean the seeds by removing any chaff or debris.
- Sow the seeds 1/8 inch deep in a well-draining soil mix.
- Water the seeds gently to avoid dislodging them from the soil.
- Place the container in a warm and bright location, such as a sunny windowsill or a greenhouse.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- The seeds will germinate in 1 to 2 weeks and can be transplanted after 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating A. breviflora var. havardii is by using stem cuttings. This method is useful for creating new plants that are identical to the parent plant. Here are the steps for propagating the plant from stem cuttings:
- Take a 4 to 6-inch stem cutting from the parent plant, preferably in the spring or early summer.
- Remove the lower leaves and any flower buds from the cutting.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth.
- Insert the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and firm the soil around it.
- Water the cutting gently to settle the soil around it and encourage root growth.
- Place the container in a warm and bright location, but away from direct sunlight.
- Mist the cutting daily to keep it moist and increase its chances of survival.
- The new plant will develop roots in 3 to 4 weeks and can be transplanted into a larger container or the ground after 6 to 8 weeks.
With proper care and maintenance, A. breviflora var. havardii can provide years of beauty and enjoyment in the garden, and propagating it is easy and rewarding. Whether you choose to propagate it from seeds or cuttings, you can be sure that the resulting plants will be just as lovely as the parent plant.
Disease Management
Agastache breviflora var. havardii is generally a hardy plant and is not seriously affected by many diseases. However, some specific diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Infected plants should be immediately removed to prevent the disease from spreading further.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and can be controlled by pruning the infected parts and keeping the plant well-ventilated to avoid humidity. Regular use of fungicides can also help control powdery mildew.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves and stems. The disease can be prevented by watering the plant at the roots and avoiding wetting the leaves. Infected parts should also be pruned and removed.
- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease appears as dark brown or black spots on the leaves and can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring proper air circulation. Infected plants should be removed.
Pest Management
Agastache breviflora var. havardii is generally resistant to most pests, but some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant and can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests also suck the sap from the plant and can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Thrips: These small, slender insects feed on the leaves and flowers, causing discoloration and deformation. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars cut through the stems of young plants and can be controlled by placing collars around the base of the plant or by using insecticides.
