Hyssopus officinalis Seeds | Rose Nectar Hyssop

Categories：Herb

Rose Nectar Hyssop seeds (Hyssopus officinalis)

LATIN NAME: Hyssopus officinalis

COMMON NAME: Rose Nectar Hyssop

Plant Profile

Known to gardeners as Rose Nectar Hyssop, Hyssopus officinalis is a noteworthy species in the mint family. Flowers open from bottom of spike upward, and bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds find them fast. Bush keeps neat, upright habit, and it stands heat and dry spells well. It likes sun, and light, well-drained soil. When it flowers, local bees and other insects make good use of it. For the gardener, the sum of these traits is a plant that is easy to live with.

Science & Biotechnology

Research touching on Hyssopus officinalis ranges from the botany of the mint family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. In mint family, nectar-rich hyssops have a recognised place in pollinator research, and rose-pink forms appear in studies of nectar production and drought tolerance. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.

Uses & Benefits

Rose Nectar Hyssop brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. In sunny border, rose nectar hyssop keeps bees coming all summer. Rose-pink spikes draw bees, butterflies and hummingbirds through warm months, grey-green leaves carry clean, herby scent, and plant takes dry spells without the fuss. It grows well in light, well-drained, sunny bed. It establishes readily and then requires nothing out of the ordinary.

Hyssop is an ancient cleansing herb of biblical fame, its cineole-rich leaves a traditional remedy for coughs and chest colds; it is official in European herbals and a fine bee plant.

Growing from Seed

Seed is the natural starting point for Rose Nectar Hyssop, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.

Our Take

Given the right start, Rose Nectar Hyssop is a long-term garden companion. Its long record of traditional use, described above, gives the plant a story beyond ornament. Keep the sowing evenly moist at the start — that is the one real requirement.

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