Agastache 'Albiflora'

Agastache 'Albiflora': A Fresh Take on a Pollinator Favourite

Agastache 'Albiflora' is a unique and elegant selection of anise hyssop that trades the typical purples and blues for pure, soft white flower spikes. Rising above licorice-scented green foliage, the luminous blooms create a cooling effect in sun-drenched borders and attract an abundance of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. With its upright habit, fragrant foliage, and extended bloom period, 'Albiflora' is a sophisticated twist on a native favourite, blending effortlessly into naturalistic plantings, herb gardens, and wildlife-friendly borders.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: Reaches 90–120 cm in height, bringing gentle vertical structure to sunny beds and borders.
• Spread: Spreads approximately 45–60 cm, forming an upright, bushy clump that remains well-behaved.
• Flower Colour: Pure white, bottlebrush-like flower spikes bloom profusely from summer into early fall.
• Flowering Period: Blooms from mid to late summer into early fall, with strong reblooming when deadheaded.
• Foliage: Aromatic green foliage with a sweet anise scent; adds texture and deters deer.
• Sunlight Requirements: Thrives in full sun; best flowering and growth occur with at least 6 hours of direct light daily.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates sandy or gravelly soils. Avoid heavy or waterlogged conditions.

Uses and Benefits: Agastache 'Albiflora' offers the pollinator appeal of traditional hyssop in a softer, more refined palette. Its creamy white flowers blend beautifully with bold or pastel schemes and are particularly striking when paired with dark foliage or late-season grasses. Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, it’s also deer and drought resistant—making it an excellent choice for sustainable, low-maintenance landscapes. Ideal for borders, pollinator gardens, and cut flower use.

Companion Plants: Pair Agastache 'Albiflora' with Echinacea 'PowWow White' to create a serene, all-white palette that glows in the summer sun while supporting pollinators throughout the season. Add Achillea 'Terracotta' for warm, earthy tones that contrast beautifully with the crisp white flowers and share similar drought-tolerant, sun-loving preferences. For structure and movement, include Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'—its upright habit and shifting green-blue blades provide vertical interest and seasonal texture that complement Albiflora’s soft form. This trio delivers a bright, balanced, and ecological planting for full-sun spaces.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during the first season to establish a deep root system. Once established, this plant is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance. Deadhead to encourage prolonged flowering. Cut back stems in late fall or early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, which may lead to legginess.

History: Agastache 'Albiflora' is a white-flowered selection of Agastache foeniculum, a North American native species prized for its aromatic foliage and long bloom time. While the species typically bears lavender-blue flowers, 'Albiflora' was selected for its rare and refined white blossoms, adding elegance and lightness to the palette. Like its parent, it’s valued for its role in pollinator support, drought tolerance, and effortless garden performance.

Final Thoughts: Agastache 'Albiflora' is a refreshing take on a classic prairie perennial. With its pristine white flowers, fragrant foliage, and ecological value, it brings brightness, beauty, and biodiversity to any sunny planting. Whether used to cool a hot border, soften bold colours, or attract pollinators, this graceful hyssop delivers sophistication and substance all season long.