Agastache 'Blue Boa' is a striking long blooming perennial that brings bold vertical color, a rich nectar source, and fragrant foliage to native inspired gardens. With its deep violet flower spikes and extended flowering season, this plant not only enhances the landscape but also supports a wide range of pollinators and beneficial insects.
Height and Spread: 2.5 - 3 ft x 1.5 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: July to September
Light Requirements: Full sun for best flowering and plant vigor
Soil Preference: Prefers well drained soil; adapts well to sandy, gravelly, or average garden soils
Watering Needs: Moderate water during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature
Deer Resistance: Highly deer resistant and seldom browsed by rabbits
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivated hybrid descends from North American native species, particularly Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop). Retains strong ecological value and supports a wide range of species
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Highly attractive to Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails. Its tall nectar rich flower spikes provide abundant fuel during both peak breeding and migration seasons.
Bees
- This plant is a magnet for native bees including bumblebees, sweat bees, mason bees, as well as honeybees. Its prolonged bloom ensures a steady nectar and pollen supply, supporting pollinators well into the late growing season.
Hummingbirds
- The tubular shape and rich nectar of the flowers make them a frequent stop for hummingbirds, especially Ruby-throated and Black-chinned species. It provides reliable energy during periods when other nectar sources have faded.
Beneficial Insects
- Adult hoverflies, parasitic wasps, and predatory beetles visit the blooms for nectar, while their larvae feed on pest insects like aphids and caterpillars, helping to naturally balance garden ecosystems.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space plants 18 - 24 inches apart to allow for full air circulation and mature spread. The upright habit adds vertical interest without crowding neighboring plants, and spacing also improves pollinator access and airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for pollinator gardens, dry borders, native plant meadows, wildlife corridors, and sensory gardens. It also thrives in raised beds and large containers with proper drainage. Its striking form and vivid color make it a strong focal point in both naturalistic and formal designs.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Allium stellatum (Prairie Onion) - Offers a contrasting form and nectar for bees
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Penstemon digitalis (Beardtongue) - Blooms earlier in the season to bridge the pollinator timeline
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Liatris aspera (Rough Blazing Star) - Spiky purple flowers that bloom concurrently and attract butterflies
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Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Finely textured foliage with sunny flowers
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Solidago rigida (Stiff Goldenrod) - Late season bloomer with structural upright form
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Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) - Adds motion and texture while thriving in similar soil
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Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - Drooping petals provide architectural contrast and pollinator value