Agastache Poquito Lavender

The Agastache 'Poquito Lavender' is a beautiful and very compact hybrid, producing a profusion of pink-purple flowers from summer to autumn. Its aromatic foliage, with a strong menthol scent, perfumes the flowerbeds. Give it a well-drained soil that is not too dry in summer, nor too rich, in the sun. Its lifespan is not very long but it multiplies easily.

The Agastache 'Poquito Lavender' belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is rich in plants that produce essential oils. These substances protect them from both herbivorous animals and the sun's rays. This variety is no exception to the rule: its deciduous foliage, heart-shaped, dark green and highly aromatic, releases a powerful mint and anise scent that delights the nostrils and repels pests!

The Agastache 'Lavender' is part of the Poquito hybrid series, which are characterised by a low and dense habit, with large spikes compared to the size of the plants. From May to October, it produces tight spikes of a beautiful pink-purple colour, well above the stems. The plant forms a compact clump, which can reach about 40 cm (16in) in height and width. Each flower is also enclosed in a darker calyx that enhances their colour. These flowers are also edible in salads. Although not exceptional, the hardiness of this variety (-12 to -15°C in well-drained soil and sheltered location) is slightly better than in other agastaches. Moreover, being very nectariferous, it will be a real magnet for bees and other pollinators, even in autumn when flowers become scarce in the garden.

The Agastache 'Poquito Lavender' appreciates full sun or light shade (its stems droop in too shady situations), and any good non-calcareous garden soil. In soil that is too rich in nitrogen, the stems will also tend to droop and may require staking. You can pinch it back to improve branching. While its ancestors provide 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 well-drained soil that prevents moisture from accumulating at its base. Adding coarse sand and gravel can be useful in heavy soil. Finally, prefer a warm and sheltered location, protected from cold winds and heavy frosts. Agastaches are in any case short-lived perennials: don't think you've done something wrong if your plant disappears after 3 to 5 years, it's its normal cycle. Remember to divide the clump regularly. In a pot, make sure to water regularly, and it will generously reward you until autumn.

In a rocky flowerbed or not too dry rockery, as well as in a container, it will make a beautiful combination with 'Lilac Beauty' yarrow, 'Warley Ruber' candytuft, or 'Pinkie' rockcress, as well as with grasses like Gautier's fescue.