Agastache foeniculum is an aromatic perennial in the mint family with licorice scented leaves and upright spikes of lavender blue flowers that bloom over an extended summer season. Its foliage is edible and often used in teas, while the plant’s strong vertical form and long blooming habit make it a standout in sunny borders or meadow style plantings.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Mid summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to dry, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Strongly deer and rabbit resistant due to aromatic foliage
Native Status
This species is native to the upper Midwest and Great Plains regions of North America, often found in prairies and open woodlands.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Draws Monarchs, Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and other nectar seeking butterflies throughout the summer.
Bees
- Highly attractive to bumblebees, leafcutter bees, and native sweat bees for its long lasting nectar supply.
Hummingbirds
- Frequently visited by Ruby Throated Hummingbirds feeding on tubular flowers during summer bloom.
Moths
- Hosts caterpillars of Hermit Sphinx and other day flying moths associated with mint family plants.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for full sun pollinator groupings and upright border accents.
Landscape Placement:
- Best in pollinator gardens, herb borders, native meadows, and sunny wildlife plantings where its scent and color attract diverse visitors.
Companion Plants
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Light and airy texture with bright blooms that mix well in dry gardens.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Similar bloom time and structure, both thrive in prairie style beds.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Aromatic foliage and open blooms attract many of the same beneficial insects.
- Allium cernuum (Nodding Onion) - Offers a graceful nodding bloom form that pairs well with Agastache spikes.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Adds vertical purple spikes and draws pollinators to the same sunny conditions.