Summer Melon Hyssop (Agastache 'Summer Melon')

Summer Melon Hyssop

Agastache 'Summer Melon'

Its blooms smell like ripe cantaloupe, a sweet, sunny addition to borders. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Summer Melon Hyssop.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day, with light afternoon shade tolerated in hot climates
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to USDA zone 5; tolerates mild frost and summer heat up to 35°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, lance-shaped, medium green leaves with serrated edges; aromatic when crushed
  • Flower: Dense terminal spikes of tubular, pale peach to creamy yellow blooms
  • Stem: Square, upright stems typical of the mint family
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Feed with balanced fertilizer once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn to prepare plants for dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support bloom production
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming through the growing season
  • Cut back stems to 10 cm above soil level in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; foliage is safe for handling and occasional culinary use in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies; aromatic foliage deters some pests