Origin
Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling, commonly known as shortflower giant hyssop, is a native plant species to the United States. It grows in several states, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, and can be found in arid to semi-arid landscapes, varying from grasslands to mountainous regions.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as shortflower giant hyssop, but also has several other common names such as hummingbird mint, licorice mint, and anise hyssop due to its pleasant aroma reminiscent of anise or licorice.
Uses
Agastache breviflora has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses by Indigenous peoples of the Southwest, such as the Navajo and Apache. The leaves of the plant have been brewed into tea to aid in digestive issues, coughs, and sore throats. The plant has also been used for ceremonial purposes and as a source of food for elk and other grazing animals. In addition to its medicinal properties, Agastache breviflora is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and ability to attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. It can also be used for landscaping purposes and in herb gardens due to its pleasant scent and unique flavor.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 1-3 feet tall and has a bushy appearance. The leaves are gray-green and lance-shaped, growing up to 2 inches long. The flowers are numerous and clustered on the top of the stems, usually blooming from early to late summer. The flowers themselves are small and tubular, growing in a shade of lavender or purple, and surrounded by colorful bracts in varying shades of pink or purple.
Light Requirements
Agastache breviflora requires full to partial sunlight exposure. It is best to plant it in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in partial shade, it may produce fewer flowers and have weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and dry growing conditions. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C) but grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Cold temperatures below 50°F (10°C) may cause the plant to die back although it can resprout in the spring.
Soil Requirements
Agastache breviflora requires well-draining soil with average to low fertility. A pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0 is best. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand poor soil conditions. Adding organic matter can help improve soil condition and provide necessary nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
The plant Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling is relatively easy to cultivate. It thrives in full sunlight and can adapt to different types of soil. Choose a well-draining area where the plant can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Use a shovel to dig a hole that is two times larger than the pot of the plant. Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of its root ball aligns with the soil surface. Firmly press the soil down around the plant.
Watering Needs
The plant Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling does not need frequent watering once it is established. Water the plant once a week throughout its first year after transplanting. During the second year, water it every 10-14 days. In the third year and beyond, you can water it once a month. However, if your area experiences a drought or dry spell, you may need to water it more often to promote healthy growth.
Fertilization
You can fertilize the plant Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling once a year. Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the plant starts to grow. Follow the instructions on the package and apply the fertilizer sparingly. Over-fertilizing can damage the plant's roots and make the leaves turn yellow. You can also apply a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the plant to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
The plant Agastache breviflora (Gray) Epling benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Cut back the entire plant by one-third in late autumn or early spring using a sharp pair of garden scissors. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches or leaves at any time. Prune the plant until you achieve the desired shape and size. Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at once, or it may not recover.
Propagation of Agastache breviflora
Agastache breviflora, commonly known as blue giant hyssop, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. The plant is native to North America and grows up to 3 feet tall. It bears spikes of lavender-blue flowers, which are very attractive to pollinators.
Propagation Methods
Agastache breviflora can be propagated through various methods, some of which are:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating agastache breviflora is through seeds. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden bed or in indoor containers, depending on the climatic conditions. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring when the weather is still cool. The seeds usually germinate within 1-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent position when they have grown to a certain size.
Division
Agastache breviflora can also be propagated through the division of its underground rhizomes. This method is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The rhizomes can be dug up, and using a sharp knife, the rhizomes can be divided into smaller sections, with each section having at least one growing point. The divisions should then be replanted in a suitable location with moist, well-drained soil.
Cuttings
Agastache breviflora can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is less common but is still effective. The best time to take cuttings is during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take stem cuttings of about 4-6 inches long, making sure to include the upper leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in indirect sunlight until it develops roots and can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, agastache breviflora prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Disease and Pest Management for Agastache Breviflora (Gray) Epling
Agastache breviflora is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that can be adversely affected by a variety of pests and diseases. Managing these pests and diseases is critical to ensure the plant's growth and the health of its foliage. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Agastache breviflora and how to manage them.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that pierce the plant's foliage and feed on its sap. These pests can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and deformation of plant parts. To manage aphids, a strong blast of water from a hose can be effective in removing them. Additionally, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used as a natural pest control method to kill aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap and cause stippling, yellowing, and webbing on the leaves. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, so providing adequate soil moisture and humidity can help manage them. Prunning and removing affected plant parts can also help control spider mite infestations. Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and predatory mites are also some effective control measures.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that cut down seedlings and young plants at the base, causing them to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, physical barriers such as paper collars can be used to protect plant stems and prevent the caterpillars from reaching them. Beneficial nematodes and biological insecticides can also be used to control cutworms.
Common Diseases
Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves and stems of Agastache breviflora. Symptoms include a white powdery coating on the leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. Providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant parts can help control powdery mildew. Fungicides can also be used if the disease is severe.
Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease that is caused by fungal pathogens that thrive in wet and poorly drained soils. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and blackening of leaves. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Correcting any underlying soil drainage issues can help control root rot. Fungicides can also be used to control fungal infections.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes round lesions on the plant's foliage. The lesions are usually circular, yellowish, and may have a dark border. The spots may also start small and merge into larger ones, causing defoliation. To control leaf spot, remove infected plant parts, provide good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays can also help manage the disease.
By monitoring regularly for pests and diseases, maintaining good plant hygiene, and using a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control measures when necessary, you can ensure your Agastache breviflora remains healthy and disease-free.
