Flower sends out licorice scent

Most gardeners are wary of acquiring any plant from the mint family because of its tendency to take over a garden in short order. But before you question my selection for this week, rest assured that Sunset Hyssop is not invasive.

Also known as Licorice Mint and Hummingbird Mint, this perennial makes a delightful addition to the garden. It has delicate gray foliage and a pleasant licorice scent when the leaves are rubbed together. For this reason, an ideal planting location would be next to a path where you will brush up against it.

The pretty flower spikes are a combination of coral and purple, which is reminiscent of a summer sunset. Because the tubular flowers are full of nectar, they attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees to the garden. Many gardeners in this region will be pleased to hear that the plants are both deer- and rabbit-resistant.

Sunset Hyssop is native to Arizona and New Mexico as well as northern Mexico. This explains why it grows well in arid regions and at high altitudes. It thrives in hot weather when many other plants start to fade. They are hardy and very adaptable to different growing conditions.

The flowers start blooming in midsummer and provide color well into the fall, with each flower lasting about two months. The plants are drought-tolerant once they are established and grow well in any soil as long as it is well-drained. They will reach a height of 18 to 36 inches and have an erect, bushy habit. They prefer full sun but will grow in partial shade as well.

Good companion plants for Sunset Hyssop include bee balm, coneflowers and lavender.