hyssop
hyssop or Hyssopus officinalis
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This herb is semi-evergreen, so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new foliage appears again in spring.
- Position: Full sun or partial shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Flowering period: May to October
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
This aromatic semi-evergreen shrub will make a very handsome addition to both the herb garden and the mixed border. The young foliage can be used to flavour food and adds a distinctive flavour to soups, stews and salads. From midsummer to early autumn it produces very pretty deep blue flowerspikes, which help attract beneficial insects into the garden. A beguiling and versatile plant that is good in patio pots and can be used as low hedging.
Don't cut back the faded flower-stems in until early spring, as they provide interest in the winter months. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring.
Sow from March to May indoors, or from May to June outdoors, 5mm deep into pots or trays of moist well-drained seed compost. Germination takes 14-21 days. Once large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into pots filled with multipurpose compost. Plant out after last frosts with 45cm spacing. Direct sow in drills and thin to 45cm spacing.