Hyssopus officinalis
Hyssopus officinalis
Hyssop
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Description
Hyssopus officinalis, or hyssop, is a hardy, aromatic perennial herb with upright, bushy growth and spikes of nectar-rich blue to purple flowers. It thrives in sunny, well-drained spots, attracts pollinators, and offers culinary and traditional medicinal uses while adding classic Mediterranean charm to the garden.
Common Names
HyssopCommon hyssopGarden hyssopEuropean hyssop
Context
nativeRegion
Mediterranean basin and Western Asia.
usdaZones
4-9
companionPlants
Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Oregano, Yarrow, Echinacea, Bee balm (Monarda), Santolina, Brassicas
culturalUses
Culinary herb for meats, stuffings, and teas; aromatic in liqueurs; traditional medicinal use as an expectorant; symbolic in historical rituals; excellent pollinator plant.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun (6–8+ hours).
WateringWater deeply, then allow soil to dry; drought tolerant once established. Avoid soggy conditions.
SoilWell-drained sandy or loamy soil; tolerates poor, calcareous soils; pH neutral to slightly alkaline.
FertilizerLight feeder—mix in compost in spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to preserve aroma and sturdiness.
HumidityLow to average humidity; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
TemperatureOptimal 60–85°F (16–29°C). Hardy in-ground to typical Zone 4–9 winters; protect from prolonged waterlogged cold.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitWoody, upright, bushy perennial herb (subshrub).
Mature Size18–24 in (45–60 cm) tall and wide; up to ~30 in (75 cm) in rich soil.
Growth RateModerate.
BloomingSummer to early fall; spikes of blue-purple (also pink/white) flowers, highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
DormancyWinter dormant; semi-evergreen in mild climates.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Semi-ripe cuttings, Division, Layering
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningShear by about one-third after first bloom to keep compact and encourage rebloom. Hard prune lightly in early spring to green wood; avoid cutting deep into old woody stems.
RepottingIn containers, refresh into a gritty, well-drained mix every 1–2 years or when rootbound.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free; root rot in poorly drained soils; possible rust or powdery mildew if crowded; occasional aphids or spider mites.
ToxicityLeaves are edible; however, the essential oil is potent and can be neurotoxic in large doses. Avoid medicinal use during pregnancy. Generally non-toxic as a garden plant.
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