| A classic for the cottage garden or kitchen windowsill, these culinary and medicinal herbs are as attractive as they are useful. Flowers cluster at intervals and on the tops of the tall square stems. Cultivars bloom in colors ranging from whites and pinks to reds and dark blue-violets. Planted by Cabbage and Grapes, Hyssop's clean, camphorlike fragrance repels flea beetles and lures away cabbage moths. The chopped fresh leaves add a peppery bite to salads, and are a key ingredient in the liqueur Chartreuse. Herbalists use them to relieve asthma and bronchitis. Try them in potpourris, facials and herbal baths. Grow from seed in autumn or spring in a sunny spot with light, well-drained soil. Or, sprout 2-inch softwood cuttings in spring or early summer. Pinch to keep bushy. |
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. For a low hedge, plant every 9 to 12 inches. Albus has white blossoms, Purpurascens (Rubra) has deep red, and Roseus has rose-pink. Grandiflora has large flowers, and Sissinghurst is a compact dwarf.
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Attributes - Hyssopus officinalis
Plant Type: Perennial
Bloom Season: Late Summer through Early Fall
Flower Color: Blue, Purple
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 1 ft. 6 in. to 2 ft.
Width: 3 ft.
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Climate: Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Notes: Fragrant.
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