Overview:
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders, commonly known as Paleflower Giant Hyssop, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. The plant is native to the southwestern region of North America, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It is a drought-tolerant herbaceous perennial that grows up to 1-3 ft. tall and 1-3 ft. wide.Appearance:
Paleflower Giant Hyssop has bushy and upright growth habit with hairy, square stems. The plant has opposite leaves that are green or gray-green, lance-shaped and finely toothed. The leaves are also strongly aromatic, with a sweet licorice or anise scent. The flowers of Paleflower Giant Hyssop are pale pink and appear in whorls or clusters along the stems atop spikes from mid-summer to fall. The flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Uses:
Agastache pallidiflora var. gilensis has several traditional medicinal uses, which include treating various ailments such as fever, cold, cough, respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin infections. The leaves, stems, and flowers of Paleflower Giant Hyssop are also used in traditional teas and as flavorings for foods, including tea, desserts, and salad dressings. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes as it adds a colorful and fragrant dimension to gardens and landscapes.Cultivation:
Paleflower Giant Hyssop is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in full sun or light shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-resistant and requires little water once established. The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by dividing mature clumps. The growing season for Paleflower Giant Hyssop is between spring and fall. The plant is highly attractive to pollinators and can be a valuable addition to pollinator gardens and meadows.Typical Growth Conditions for Agastache pallidiflora
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders, commonly known as Paleflower Agastache, is a native plant to the Southwestern United States. Here are the typical growth conditions for this species:
Light
This plant requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, but too much shade will result in weak stems and spindly growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature
Agastache pallidiflora is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It prefers warm temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures between 55-65°F (13-18°C) at night. It can also tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) during the winter.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It does not tolerate waterlogged or heavy clay soils, which can lead to root rot. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and loose. Adding organic matter like compost and perlite can help to improve soil drainage and fertility.
Cultivation methods
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders is a relatively easy plant to grow. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can grow in rocky, sandy, or loamy soils. The plant prefers a pH range between 6.0 to 8.5.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering to establish. After the establishment period, it can tolerate some drought. The plant is sensitive to overwatering that can cause root rot. A good watering practice is to allow the soil to dry out between watering. A well-draining soil will prevent the soil from being waterlogged.
Fertilization
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders does not require much fertilization. The plant can survive in poor soil conditions. However, it will benefit from some organic matter added to the planting hole. A slow-release granular fertilizer can provide sufficient nutrients for the plant's growth, especially in poor soil conditions.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning. However, to keep the plant tidy and to encourage bushier growth, deadheading spent flowers and pinching back spent stems can be done. This practice can also encourage a more extended bloom season. It is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagation of Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders
Agastache pallidiflora (Heller) Rydb. ssp. pallidiflora var. gilensis R.W. Sanders can be propagated through several methods, including division, cuttings, and seed.
Division
Division is best done in the spring. Carefully dig around the plant and lift it from the ground. Shake off the soil and gently pull apart the clumps. Each clump should have some roots attached. Replant the clumps in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken in the summer from non-flowering stems. Cut a stem around 10 cm long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Water thoroughly and cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain humidity. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Seed
Seeds can be sown directly in the garden in spring or fall. Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil and removing any weeds. Scatter the seeds over the soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out to allow for proper spacing.
