Hummingbird mint (Agastache spp.) is a popular ornamental plant grown for its long blooming period and its ability to attract hummingbirds. However, some gardeners have concerns that certain types of hummingbird mint may become invasive in the landscape. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at hummingbird mint to determine if it has the potential to become an invasive plant.
What is Hummingbird Mint?
Hummingbird mint is the common name used for a group of perennial plants in the Lamiaceae mint family that are native to North America. There are about 22 species of Agastache, with many cultivated varieties and hybrids available. Some of the most popular types include:
- Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) – licorice scented foliage
- Korean mint (Agastache rugosa) – short spikes of lavender flowers
- Golden Jubilee (Agastache foeniculum ‘Golden Jubilee’) – chartreuse foliage
- Blue Fortune (Agastache ‘Blue Fortune’) – cobalt blue flowers
- Tutti Frutti (Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tutti Frutti’) – mix of flower colors
Hummingbird mint plants grow 2-4 feet tall on erect, square stems clad with pointed, aromatic leaves. Tubular flowers form dense spikes at the top of the stems in shades of blue, purple, pink, orange, or yellow depending on variety. The tiny flowers provide nectar that attracts hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Is Hummingbird Mint Native?
Most species of hummingbird mint are native to North America. Their native range extends from British Columbia east to Ontario, south to California, Arizona, New Mexico and Georgia. A few species are native to Mexico and Central America.
Because the majority of hummingbird mint species originate from the western and southwestern United States, these plants are well-adapted to hot, dry conditions. They thrive in zones 4-10 and don’t require supplemental irrigation once established.
Hummingbird Mint Growing Conditions
Here are the preferred growing conditions for hummingbird mint plants:
- Soil – average, well-drained soil; adapts to poor soil; intolerant of wet soil
- Sun – full sun to partial shade
- Water – drought tolerant; needs occasional watering once established
- Zones – 4-10
Hummingbird mint grows best in a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sun. It can tolerate light shade but may bloom less. It does require good drainage and won’t tolerate wet soils or areas that collect standing water after rains.
Is Hummingbird Mint Aggressive?
Most species of hummingbird mint are not aggressive plants. They have a clumping growth habit and don’t spread rapidly via underground rhizomes or overtake areas by self-seeding. The majority of Agastache species would be considered well-behaved, non-invasive plants. However, there are a couple of exceptions discussed below.
Korean Mint
Korean mint (Agastache rugosa) is one variety that can be aggressive in certain conditions. It spreads via underground rhizomes to form large clumps that can reach 4 feet wide. Korean mint may require more frequent dividing to keep its growth under control, especially in rich garden soils. It also produces abundant seed that can lead to self-sowing.
Golden Jubilee
Golden Jubilee hummingbird mint (Agastache foeniculum ‘Golden Jubilee’) is a hybrid variety known for its vigor. It forms dense clumps up to 3 feet wide and will spread readily in ideal conditions. Dividing every 2-3 years is recommended to prevent overcrowding.
Is Hummingbird Mint Invasive?
Very few species or varieties of hummingbird mint can be considered truly invasive plants. Korean mint and Golden Jubilee have the most potential to spread aggressively, but they do not pose a major ecological threat like highly invasive exotic plants.
Hummingbird mint is not listed on any invasive plant watch lists, such as the following:
- USDA Federal Noxious Weed List
- Invasive Plant Atlas of the U.S.
- California Invasive Plant Inventory
No states have placed restrictions on growing any Agastache species. Overall, hummingbird mint has a low risk of becoming weedy or invasive in garden settings.
Tips for Growing Non-Invasive Hummingbird Mint
Here are some recommendations for growing hummingbird mint so it stays tidy and non-invasive in your garden:
- Select less aggressive varieties like anise hyssop or Blue Fortune.
- Allow enough space between plants for good air circulation.
- Grow in lean or average soil instead of very fertile soil.
- Cut back flowers after bloom to reduce self-sowing.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years to control spread.
- Pull unwanted seedlings when they appear.
Uses for Hummingbird Mint
Here are some popular uses for hummingbird mint plants in gardens:
- Borders – Adds color and attracts pollinators
- Containers – Compact varieties ideal for pots and planters
- Herb Gardens – Edible varieties used for tea and seasonings
- Wildlife Gardens – Provides nectar for hummingbirds and bees
- Pollinator Gardens – Supports a diversity of pollinating insects
- Rain Gardens – Tolerates dry soils once established; help soak up runoff
When used properly in garden design, non-invasive varieties of hummingbird mint add seasonal interest to gardens from midsummer into fall.
Key Takeaways
- Most species of hummingbird mint (Agastache spp.) are not invasive plants when grown in their preferred habitat and conditions.
- Korean mint (Agastache rugosa) and Golden Jubilee (Agastache foeniculum ‘Golden Jubilee’) have potential to spread aggressively and may require control.
- Plant hummingbird mint in lean soil, allow for air circulation between plants, and divide every few years to prevent mint from spreading.
- Hummingbird mint has many uses in gardens, including attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.
- With proper site selection and care, hummingbird mint can make a rewarding, non-invasive addition to gardens in its hardiness zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hummingbird mint perennial?
Yes, hummingbird mint is a perennial in zones 4-10. The plants will die back each winter in cold climates but re-emerge the following spring.
Is hummingbird mint deer resistant?
Hummingbird mint is deer resistant due to its aromatic foliage which deters browsing by deer. It can be grown in gardens prone to deer damage.
Does hummingbird mint spread?
Most species spread slowly via clump division, while Korean mint and Golden Jubilee may spread more aggressively through rhizomes. Mint also spreads by self-seeding if not deadheaded.
Is hummingbird mint drought tolerant?
Yes, hummingbird mint is very drought tolerant and does not require regular watering once established. Too much moisture can lead to root rot.
Is hummingbird mint edible?
Many types of hummingbird mint have edible leaves and flowers with a minty flavor. Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is used for tea and seasonings. Always check a plant’s edibility before ingestion.
Does hummingbird mint spread like regular mint?
No, standard culinary mint (Mentha spp.) is much more invasive than hummingbird mint. Culinary mint is a vigorous spreader through underground rhizomes while hummingbird mint spreads slowly through clump division.
Conclusion
Although a few varieties like Korean mint may need some control measures, most types of hummingbird mint are not invasive plants. When sited and cared for properly, hummingbird mint is an attractive plant that can be grown successfully in gardens across its hardiness zones.
By selecting non-aggressive varieties, allowing for air circulation, dividing when needed, and deadheading spent flowers, hummingbird mint can add beauty and wildlife habitat to the garden without becoming a nuisance. Hummingbird mint deserves consideration by gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to their landscape.
