Agastache rugosa, 'Liquorice Blue'

Agastache rugosa ‘Liquorice Blue’

A magnet for pollinators and plant-lovers alike, Agastache rugosa ‘Liquorice Blue’ stands tall with elegant spires of soft violet-blue flowers held above aromatic, anise-scented foliage. Its long flowering season and upright habit make it a perfect choice for mid-border structure, gravel gardens, or fragrant herb mixes — offering both beauty and sensory appeal.

Despite its graceful look, it’s a robust perennial that copes well with sun, wind, and dry soils once established. Flowering begins in midsummer and continues through early autumn, feeding bees, hoverflies, and butterflies for weeks on end. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, making it a stunning dual-purpose plant for ornamental and culinary use.

Specifications:

• Height: 60–90 cm

• Spread: 30–50 cm

• Flowering: July to September (often into October)

• Position: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained; thrives in chalky, sandy, or light loam soils

• Maintenance: Cut back after flowering; divide or replant from basal cuttings every 2–3 years

🌿 Note for Isle of Wight planting:

Perfect for Island gardeners who want long-season colour and fragrance with minimal fuss. This Agastache handles dry, free-draining soils and coastal exposure beautifully — and its aromatic leaves deter rabbits, making it ideal for wilder margins or exposed plots.

🌿 Ideal Companion Plants from The Green Standard Range:

• Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ – deep violet flower spikes and similar flowering time

• Achillea millefolium ‘Cassis’ – flat, pastel umbels with excellent contrast

• Verbena officinalis ‘Bampton’ – fine-textured foliage and delicate flowers to thread between

• Eryngium planum – sculptural texture and shared love of dry sun

🌟 The Green Standard Tip:

Grow near seating areas, paths, or kitchen doors where you can brush past and enjoy the liquorice scent. Harvest young leaves for herbal teas or sprinkle edible flowers over salads and desserts for a fragrant flourish.