Anise Hyssop is both a gorgeous, upright perennial and a delicious herb for teas, baking, or sitting near while reading a good book in the garden. It is native to North America, where it was used by native peoples to treat many ailments. Its aroma is indeed anise-like; a small handful of its leaves make a great addition to a salad, and when dried it can be used to season baked goods. The flowers are attractive to bees and hummingbirds, making Anise Hyssop one of the most useful plants of the garden. Once established, its heavily-scented, slightly fuzzy purply-green leaves are some of the first to emerge in the spring. Foliage bears erect pink flowers that attract pollinators like no other, especially bees. A great choice for borders, flower gardens, cottage gardens and perennial herb gardens. A hardy perennial that self sows and comes back year after year. Simply harvest the flowers at their peak, dry thoroughly and store in an airtight container.
