Hyssopus officinalis
herbHyssop is a compact, semi-evergreen Mediterranean herb with narrow aromatic leaves and dense spikes of blue, sometimes pink or white, flowers that are a magnet for bees and butterflies. The slightly bitter, minty-anise foliage has long been used in teas and traditional remedies.
Sun
full sun
Water
Every 7 days
Harvest
~90 days
Difficulty
easy
Lifecycle
perennial
Comes back every year
Spacing
12-24 in. apart
Planting Depth
Surface-sow seed (needs light)
Soil pH
7.0-8.0
Soil Type
Well-draining, lean to fertile
Hardiness Zones
Zones 4 – 9
When to Fertilize
Light feed in spring only
Fertilizer
Low; lean soil suits it
Start seed indoors about eight weeks before the last frost, pressing it on the surface for light, and transplant after frost into well-drained, neutral-to-alkaline soil in full sun. Hyssop is drought-tolerant and thrives in lean soil; avoid rich, wet ground. Shear after the first flush of bloom to encourage rebloom and keep the small shrub tidy.
Start seeds indoors
Feb 18
Transplant outdoors
Apr 15
Projected first harvest
Jul 14
Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests
Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide
Snip leafy sprigs anytime once established, and cut flowering tops as the spikes open for the strongest aroma. Hang small bundles to dry in shade; leave plenty of bloom standing, since hyssop is a top nectar and honey plant.
Hyssop has a long traditional use in teas for coughs and digestion; in the garden its flowers are an outstanding nectar source for bees and butterflies and yield a prized honey.
For educational and informational purposes only — HomeSown is not medical, health, or other professional advice. Always positively identify any plant before handling or eating it; some plants, and some parts of otherwise-edible plants, are toxic. Consult a qualified professional before consuming or otherwise using any plant, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a health condition.