Anise Hyssop Plant

Anise Hyssop, also known as Blue Giant Hyssop, Fragrant Giant Hyssop and Lavender Giant Hyssop, is actually a member of the mint family and not closely related to the hyssops at all!

Its leaves are very aromatic, smelling pleasantly of anise, or licorice. Forming upright clumps of 2-4ft (60-120cm) in height, with a spread of 1ft (30cm), Anise Hyssop is a striking addition to any herb garden. Its long purple or lavender-blue flower spikes, flowering from July to September, are extremely attractive to bees and other pollinating insects. Deadhead regularly to encourage further blooms. Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Can be grown in large containers on a patio.

Recognised to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

• Short-lived perennial.
• Likes well-drained soil, happy in most soil types.
• Likes full sun.
• Beautiful lavender blue-purple flowers.
• Flowers July-September.
• Highly aromatic leaves.
• Attractive to pollinators.
• Deer-resistant.
• Drought-tolerant.

Culinary uses

• Leaves can be added to salads.
• Leaves can be made into a refreshing tea.
• Can be added to fruit cup, like borage.
• Chop and and to pork dishes.
• Flowers can be added to fruit salads.

Other uses

• Use leaves in pot pourri