Agastache Globetrotter

'Globetrotter' Agastache is a superb upright hybrid, producing a profusion of mauve lilac flowers from summer to autumn. Its aromatic foliage, with a strong menthol scent, fills the beds with fragrance. Provide it with a well-drained soil that is not too dry in summer, nor too rich, in full sun. Its lifespan is not very long, but it multiplies easily.

'Globetrotter' Agastache is the result of cross-breeding between Agastache pallida (a species native to the southwest United States and northern Mexico) and Agastache rugosa (another large and robust species native to China, Korea, and Japan). It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is rich in plants producing essential oils. These substances protect them from herbivorous animals and the sun's rays. 'Globetrotter' Agastache follows this rule: its deciduous, dark green, heart-shaped foliage is highly aromatic, emitting a powerful scent of menthol and anise that delights the senses and repels pests! The plant forms an upright clump that can reach 75 to 90 cm (30 to 35in) in height and about 45 cm (18in) in diameter. From June to October, it produces tight spikes of pink mauve flowers that sway above the stems. Each flower is also encased in a purple-pink calyx that enhances its colour. These flowers are also edible in salads. The hardiness of this variety, although not exceptional (-15°C (5°F) in well-drained soil and sheltered location), is better than other agastaches. Moreover, being highly nectar-rich, it will attract bees and other pollinators, even in autumn when flowers become scarce in the garden.

'Globetrotter' hybrid Agastache appreciates full sun or light shade (otherwise its stems will droop) and any good garden soil that is not too chalky. In soil that is too rich in nitrogen, the stems may also tend to droop and may require staking. You can pinch it to improve branching. While its Mexican parent provides 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, prefer a warm and protected location sheltered from cold winds and heavy 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, as this is its normal cycle. In principle, it should not be difficult to collect some seeds from nearby plants. And who knows, you might find among the descendants a plant with interesting characteristics! In pots, make sure to water regularly, and it will generously reward you until autumn.

In a bed of plants, it will form a beautiful combination with 'Scorpion' Monarda, Erigeron glaucus 'See Breeze', Hyssop officinalis, 'Mainacht' Salvia nemorosa, as well as with airy grasses like Stipa pulcherrima'or Eragrostis spectabilis.