Pollinator Plant Spotlight: Hummingbird Mint (Agastache)

Calling all butterfly and hummingbird enthusiasts! Our new pollinator plant spotlight shines on a native perennial that keeps your garden buzzing: hummingbird mint (Agastache or anise hyssop). This easy-care perennial attracts butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinating insects to your garden with its vibrant flower spikes that fit dozens of tubular flowers. Native to the Great Plains and prairie of states in the south-central United States, hummingbird mint is a relatively large perennial that is sun-loving and tolerant of dry soil but highly adaptable to a wide range of environments. Here, we’ll tell you about Agastache and why it belongs in your pollinator garden.

The secret to this native perennial pollinator-attracting power is the vibrant flower spikes paired with tubular florets! Hummingbird mint flowers come in shades of purple, blue, yellow, orange, and red, which are colors that pollinators can easily perceive as high-value energy sources. Next, the tubular florets smothering each flower make it easy for hummingbirds and butterfly mouths to access the sweet nectar. 

The foliage from hummingbird mint as a strong, but pleasant, minty fragrance when touched or crushed. This strong scent deters critters, making it a great choice for gardeners looking for deer-resistant perennials! Hummingbird mint is also a long-bloomer, starting its show in late spring and not letting up until early fall. 

As temperatures continue rising, so does the need for natural resources like water. The average American family uses 320 gallons of water per day, about 30 percent of which is devoted to outdoor use. Fortunately, we can do our part to conserve water by planting waterwise perennials and shrubs. Hummingbird mint is a drought-tolerant perennial that has low water needs and thrives on neglect. Pair it with other drought-tolerant plants like lavender, phlox, coneflower, or even butterfly bush to conserve water and support pollinators for many summers to come.