New Mexico Giant Hyssop, Bill Williams Mountain giant hyssop

Agastache neomexicana

Physical Characteristics

Agastache neomexicana is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Tea The highly aromatic young leaves are used as a flavouring in cooked dishes[183, 257]. The young leaves are used to make a herbal tea[183]. Foraging: The leaves and flowers are edible and can be used fresh in salads or cooked. They have a mild, mint-like taste similar to those of nettleleaf horsemint (A. urticifolia) [2-3]. The seeds are not widely documented as edible, but trials suggest they can be eaten after cooking. Boiling produces the best results: the seeds taste starchy with a slight bitterness, and the bran-like seed coats eventually soften. Toasting the seeds gives a less pleasant result, overlaying a burnt flavor without removing the bitterness. Boiled seeds are palatable and nourishing, and the processing is relatively straightforward since the chaff separates easily [2-3].

Medicinal Uses

Febrifuge Salve The dried and pulverized root has been used as a dusting powder for sores and cankers[257]. The plant has been used in the treatment of fevers and bad coughs[257].

Known Hazards

None known