Exploring the Beauty and Benefits of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

The Magic of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

Are you looking for a plant that is not only beautiful but also beneficial for your garden? Look no further than the Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint. This stunning perennial is a favorite among gardeners due to its vibrant purple-blue flowers that bloom in the summer months.

But there's more to this plant than just its good looks. Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint, also known as Agastache 'Blue Boa', is a member of the mint family and has many uses beyond being merely decorative. In this blog post, we'll explore the beauty and benefits of this amazing plant.

The History of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

Agastache 'Blue Boa' is a relatively new cultivar of the Agastache genus, which includes over 30 species of flowering plants. The genus name Agastache comes from the Greek words "agape", meaning love, and "stachys", meaning spikes, which refers to the plant's flower spikes.

The Blue Boa cultivar was first introduced in 2018 by Terra Nova Nurseries, a wholesale producer of high-quality perennials based in Canby, Oregon. Since then, it has gained popularity among gardeners and landscapers due to its unique color and hardiness.

Growing Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

If you're looking to add Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint to your garden, you'll be happy to know that it's relatively easy to grow. Here are some tips for growing this beautiful and beneficial plant:

Location:

Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions once established.

Planting:

Plant Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint in the spring or fall, after the last frost has passed. Space plants 18-24 inches apart.

Watering:

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint can tolerate dry conditions.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Benefits of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

Not only is Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint a beautiful addition to your garden, but it also has many benefits. Let's take a look at some of them:

Bird Attractor:

As the name suggests, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint attracts hummingbirds, as well as other pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant's tubular flowers provide a perfect landing spot for these creatures.

Aromatic:

Like other members of the mint family, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint has a pleasant scent. Crush a few leaves between your fingers and breathe in the refreshing aroma.

Culinary Use:

The leaves of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint can be used in cooking, much like other types of mint. They have a slightly spicy flavor and can be used in teas, salads, and meat dishes.

Medicinal Properties:

Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antibacterial properties.

Other Varieties of Agastache

If you're a fan of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint, you might be interested in other varieties of the Agastache genus. Here are a few to consider:

Agastache 'Golden Jubilee':

This cultivar has bright yellow-green leaves that add color to your garden even when the plant is not in bloom.

Agastache 'Black Adder':

As the name suggests, this cultivar has dark purple-black flowers that contrast beautifully with its green foliage.

Agastache 'Blue Fortune':

This cultivar has blue-purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. It's a favorite of pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint

1. How tall does Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint grow?

Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint can grow up to 24 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide.

2. Can Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint tolerate cold temperatures?

Yes, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, which means it can tolerate cold temperatures.

3. Is Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint invasive?

No, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint is not considered invasive.

4. How often should I water Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint?

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint can tolerate dry conditions and may not need much watering.

5. Can I grow Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint in a container?

Yes, Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system.

In Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint is a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. Its stunning purple-blue flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, while its leaves have many culinary and medicinal uses. With proper care, it's also relatively easy to grow. So why not add a few plants of Blue Boa Hummingbird Mint to your garden this season?