Discover how to grow and care for hummingbird mint plants (Agastache) with expert tips from Ashley Scott. Learn about zones, deer resistance, toxicity, and where to buy!
I’ve been gardening for over a decade, and few plants have brought me as much joy—or as many hummingbirds—as the hummingbird mint plant (Agastache). With its spiky blooms, fragrant foliage, and low-maintenance nature, this perennial is a must-have for any garden. Below, I’ll share everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and loving this pollinator magnet.
What Is a Hummingbird Mint Plant?
The hummingbird mint plant (often called Agastache) is a hardy perennial native to North America. It’s part of the mint family but lacks the invasive tendencies of its relatives. Instead, it offers tubular flowers in shades of orange, pink, blue, and purple that hummers, bees, and butterflies adore.
I first planted Agastache in my Colorado garden five years ago, and it’s thrived despite harsh winters and hungry deer. Its licorice-like scent and drought tolerance make it a standout in my xeriscape beds.
Why Grow Hummingbird Mint?
- Pollinator Paradise: My Agastache patches are always buzzing! Hummingbirds visit daily, especially during peak bloom (summer to fall).
- Deer Resistant: As I learned from trial and error (and a few nibbled plants), hummingbird mint is deer-resistant. Deer avoid its strong fragrance.
- Drought-Tolerant: Perfect for water-wise gardens.
- Versatile Size: Depending on the variety, plants range from 1–4 feet tall, fitting containers, borders, or wildflower meadows.
Hummingbird Mint Plant Care: My Step-by-Step Tips
1. Sunlight & Zone Requirements
Hummingbird mint plant zones span 5–10, but it thrives in hot, sunny spots. Plant it where it’ll get 6+ hours of direct sun daily. In my Zone 6 garden, I’ve noticed plants in partial shade grow leggy and bloom less.
2. Soil & Watering
Agastache hates “wet feet.” Use well-draining soil (I mix sand into clay-heavy beds). Water deeply but infrequently—once a week in summer, less in spring/fall. Overwatering = root rot!
3. Pruning & Deadheading
Trim back spent flowers to encourage reblooming. In late fall, I cut stems to 4–6 inches tall. This prevents winter damage and promotes bushier growth next year.
4. Overwintering Tips
In Zones 5–6, add mulch around the base after the first frost. My ‘Blue Fortune’ Agastache survived -10°F thanks to a thick layer of straw!
Where to Buy Hummingbird Mint Plants
Looking for hummingbird mint plants for sale? Here’s where I’ve had success:
- Local Nurseries: Check for hummingbird mint plant near me at independent garden centers.
- Online Retailers: High Country Gardens and Prairie Moon Nursery sell healthy Agastache hummingbird mint plants.
- Seed Starting: For hummingbird mint seeds, Botanical Interests offers reliable options.
👉 Pro Tip: Use the term “hummingbird mint plant nearby” in Google search with your location to find local sellers fast.
Popular Varieties to Try
1. Tango Hummingbird Mint Plant
Bright orange blooms that glow in sunset light. Stays compact (18–24 inches tall).
2. Dwarf Hummingbird Mint Plant
Perfect for small spaces! ‘Kudos Coral’ grows just 12–15 inches tall.
3. Rainbow Hummingbird Mint Plant
‘Apache Sunset’ offers gradient blooms from peach to magenta.
For more ideas, explore my guide on drought-tolerant perennials.
FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions
Is Hummingbird Mint Plant Toxic to Dogs?
According to the ASPCA, Agastache is non-toxic to dogs and cats. My golden retriever has sniffed (but never eaten) mine for years.
How Tall Does It Grow?
Most varieties reach 2–3 feet, but giants like ‘Black Adder’ hit 4 feet. Check the tag for hummingbird mint plant height specifics.
Can It Grow in Containers?
Absolutely! Use a pot with drainage holes and gritty soil. My ‘Pink Pearl’ hummingbird mint thrives in a 12-inch planter.
Why Trust My Advice?
Hi, I’m Ashley Scott—gardener, writer, and founder of USA Garden Hub. Over my 10-year journey, I’ve tested hundreds of plants across USDA zones 4–8. My tips are rooted in real-world experience, not just textbook knowledge.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after hummingbird mint plant seeds or a ready-grown ‘Blue Boa,’ this plant is a garden game-changer. It’s low-fuss, high-impact, and a lifesaver for pollinators. For more inspiration, check out my article on attracting hummingbirds naturally.
Happy planting! 🌸