Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling var. neomexicana (Briq.) R.W. Sanders: Description, Origin, Common Names, and Uses
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling var. neomexicana (Briq.) R.W. Sanders, also known as New Mexico giant hyssop, is a plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This perennial herb is native to North America, ranging from Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States to Chihuahua and Sonora in Mexico. It grows in the wild in open woods, grasslands, and rocky slopes, usually at an altitude of 4000-9000 feet (about 1220-2745 meters).
New Mexico giant hyssop is commonly known as canyon hyssop, purple giant hyssop, and New Mexico anise among many other names. The plant was traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, such as treating colds, headaches, fever, and stomach problems. Its leaves and stems have a minty anise aroma and flavor, making it also a popular ingredient in herbal teas and food seasoning.
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling var. neomexicana (Briq.) R.W. Sanders can grow up to 5 feet (about 1.5 meters) in height and 3 feet (about 0.9 meters) in width. The plant has erect and square stems that are green to purplish in color and covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are lanceolate to ovate in shape, grayish-green to pale blue-gray, and up to 3 inches (about 7.6 centimeters) long and 1 inch (about 2.5 centimeters) wide. The flowering season of New Mexico giant hyssop is from mid-summer to early fall, producing flowers in dense spikes that range from light lavender to purple in color. Each flower is tubular and two-lipped, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds for pollination.
In contemporary times, New Mexico giant hyssop is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its ornamental value, drought tolerance, and wildlife attraction. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil with moderate moisture. Its foliage and flowers can also be used for creating floral arrangements and potpourri.
Light Requirements
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling var. neomexicana (Briq.) R.W. Sanders typically prefer full sun to partial shade. It thrives in light and warmth, especially in regions with hot summers.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species favors warmer temperatures and is native to arid regions of North America, particularly the southwestern United States. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, which encompasses a range of annual minimum temperatures from -20°F to 30°F (-29°C to -1°C).
Soil Requirements
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. neomexicana (Briq.) Lint & Epling var. neomexicana (Briq.) R.W. Sanders prefers well-draining soils. Loamy and sandy soils are ideal for this species. The pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline (6.6 to 7.8).
Cultivation
Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is a relatively easy plant to cultivate in gardens or containers. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline or neutral in pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types from sandy to loamy or clay soils but requires good drainage to prevent root rot. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Watering Needs
The Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana plant requires moderate watering. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. In hot, dry weather, the plant may need regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. A good practice is to stick your finger in the soil; if it feels dry up to the first knuckle, it's time to water.
Fertilization
The Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana plant requires a moderate amount of fertilizer throughout the growing season, preferably with high phosphorus levels. It is advisable to apply fertilizer once a month, starting in the spring and continuing until the end of summer. Avoid applying fertilizer too close to the base of the plant or in concentrated amounts, which can burn the roots.
Pruning
Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana benefits from regular pruning to keep it healthy and encourage bushy growth. Pruning should be carried out in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Cut back any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and prune back any old or woody stems to promote new growth. Regular deadheading during the growing season will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation Methods for Agastache Pallidiflora ssp. Neomexicana var. Neomexicana
Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is a North American plant that belongs to the mint family. It is well known for its spicy-sweet foliage and pale lavender to purple flowers, which are ideal for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant is easy to grow from seeds or cuttings and can be propagated indoors or outdoors. Here are the propagation methods for Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana:
Propagation from Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is by using seeds. Seeds can be collected from mature plants once they have dried out. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in trays or pots. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist until they germinate, which usually takes around 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a decent size, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation from Cuttings
Another option for propagating Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is through cuttings. Take cuttings from the non-flowering shoots of the plant, making sure to take around 4-6 inches of the stem. Remove any leaves from the lower part of the stem and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or clear plastic wrap to maintain humidity levels. Place the pot in a brightly-lit area out of direct sunlight. The cuttings should root in about a month and can then be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease Management:
Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is susceptible to several foliage diseases including powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the upper surface of leaves and on the stems. Rust appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves. Leaf spot manifests as brown or black spots on leaves. Good sanitation practices like eliminating diseased plant debris and increasing air circulation can help prevent the spread of these diseases. Fungicides can also be used to manage powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot, but one should consult an expert before applying any chemical treatments on the plant.
Pest Management:
The Agastache pallidiflora ssp. neomexicana var. neomexicana is vulnerable to pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, which causes the leaves to turn yellow. Aphids, which are wingless insects, suck the sap from the leaves causing curling and yellowing of the leaves. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, one can use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Aphids can be removed by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap. The use of a horticultural oil and withholding irrigation to stressed plants can help to manage mealybugs.
