Agastache aurantiaca Tango

'Tango' Agastache aurantiaca is a superb compact and floriferous variety, with large coppery-orange flowers from June to October. Its aromatic, grey-green and strongly menthol-scented foliage fills the borders with fragrance. Give it a rich, well-drained soil that is not too dry in summer, in a sunny spot. Its life is short but it multiplies easily.

'Tango' Agastache grows spontaneously in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is a species with large trumpet-shaped flowers, which are pollinated by hummingbirds in its natural habitat. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, rich in plants that produce essential oils. These substances protect them from herbivorous animals and the sun's rays. The golden Agastache is no exception: its greyish green foliage, highly aromatic, releases a powerful menthol scent that delights the senses and repels pests! The flowers are also edible. Although not exceptional (-12°C (10.4°F) approximately, or even -15°C (5°F) in a well-drained soil and sheltered location), its hardiness is better than in other species.

The 'Tango' variety is a compact selection that will not exceed 45cm (18in) in height when in bloom, with the same width. Between June and October, it continuously produces a cloud of bright orange flowers, tinged with warm coppery tones, carried in dense, upright spikes above the leafy clump. Very floriferous and ramified, it also shows better resistance to humidity than others, especially if you live in a region with humid summers.

'Tango' Agastache appreciates full sun or light shade (otherwise its stems will wilt), and any good garden soil that is not too chalky. While its native range provides it with some resistance to hot climates and drought episodes, it will still be more beautiful and fuller if the summer is not too arid. However, it dislikes excessive water, so plant it in a well-drained soil that prevents moisture from accumulating at its base. Coarse sand and gravel can be useful in heavy soil. Finally, choose a warm and protected location, sheltered from cold winds and severe frosts. Agastaches are, in any case, perennials with a rather short lifespan: don't think you've done something wrong if your plant disappears after 3 to 5 years; that's its normal cycle. In principle, it should not be difficult for you to collect some self-sown seedlings in the vicinity. And, who knows, perhaps you will find among the offspring a plant with interesting characteristics! In a pot, make sure to water regularly, and it will generously reward you until autumn.

In a field of plants, it will form a beautiful colour combination with 'Gold Nugget' Sempervivum, which takes on warm colors in winter, 'Terracotta' Yarrow, Delosperma 'Wheels of Wonder Orange', or even 'Hot Papaya' Echinacea.