Agastache Black Adder: A Must-Have Plant for Your Garden

Are you looking for a plant that will add a touch of elegance to your garden? Look no further than Agastache Black Adder! This stunning plant is native to North America and has become increasingly popular in recent years. With its dark purple foliage and striking blue flowers, it's easy to see why. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about Agastache Black Adder, from its planting and care requirements to its many uses in the garden.

What is Agastache Black Adder?

Agastache Black Adder, also known as Giant Hyssop, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It typically grows to a height of around 2-3 feet and produces long spikes of blue-violet flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The plant's leaves are a deep green color, while its stems and flower spikes are a rich shade of purple.

Planting Agastache Black Adder

If you're interested in growing Agastache Black Adder in your garden, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, this plant prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but too much can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Additionally, Agastache Black Adder is relatively drought-tolerant and doesn't require a lot of water once established.

When planting Agastache Black Adder, it's important to space the plants at least 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper growth. You should also dig a hole that's slightly larger than the plant's root ball and add some compost or other organic matter to the soil. This will help ensure that the plant has access to the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Caring for Agastache Black Adder

Once your Agastache Black Adder is planted, it's important to care for it properly to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant. Here are a few tips:

• Water regularly during the first few weeks after planting to help the plant establish its roots.
• Once established, water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
• Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers.
• Cut back the plant by about one-third in late autumn or early spring to promote new growth.

Uses in the Garden

Agastache Black Adder is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. Here are just a few ideas:

1. Border Plant

Because of its striking appearance and long blooming period, Agastache Black Adder makes an excellent border plant. It looks especially beautiful when planted in groups of three or more.

2. Container Plant

If you don't have space for a full garden, consider planting Agastache Black Adder in a container. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces, and its unique coloration will add interest to any outdoor living area.

3. Pollinator Attractor

Agastache Black Adder is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice if you're looking to attract pollinators to your garden.

4. Culinary Herb

In addition to its ornamental qualities, Agastache Black Adder is also a useful culinary herb. Its leaves have a slightly minty flavor and can be used to make teas or added to salads for a fresh burst of flavor.

Growing Agastache Black Adder from Seed

If you're interested in growing Agastache Black Adder from seed, it's important to early. Sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area, and keep them in a warm, sunny location until they germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and continue to care for them until they're ready to be planted in the garden.

Propagation via Cuttings

Another way to propagate Agastache Black Adder is by taking cuttings. Simply snip off a stem that's around 4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting soil and keep it in a warm, sunny location until it roots. Once the cutting has rooted, transplant it into the garden.

Frequently Asked Questions About Agastache Black Adder

1. Is Agastache Black Adder easy to grow?

Yes! Agastache Black Adder is a relatively low-maintenance plant that's well-suited to a variety of growing conditions.

2. Can Agastache Black Adder tolerate hot, dry weather?

Absolutely! This plant is quite drought-tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry conditions.

3. How often should I water my Agastache Black Adder?

Once established, Agastache Black Adder only needs to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry.

4. How do I deadhead Agastache Black Adder?

To deadhead Agastache Black Adder, simply snip off the spent blooms with a pair of sharp scissors or shears.

5. Can I use Agastache Black Adder in cooking?

Absolutely! This plant's leaves have a slightly minty flavor and can be used to make teas or added to salads for a fresh burst of flavor.


Agastache Black Adder is a beautiful and versatile plant that's sure to add interest to any garden. Whether you're looking to attract pollinators, create an eye-catching border, or even use it as a culinary herb, this plant has plenty to offer. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy its striking appearance and unique qualities for years to come.