Agastache ‘Zuni’ – Rich Purple Spikes for Hummingbird-Friendly Gardens
Agastache ‘Zuni’ is a striking perennial known for its deep purple flower spikes and aromatic, minty foliage. Blooming from midsummer into fall, this variety brings height, movement, and vibrant color to sunny gardens. Highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, ‘Zuni’ thrives in hot, dry conditions and poor soils—making it a dependable choice for low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its upright habit and long-lasting blooms give the garden a bold vertical accent from midseason to frost.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for pollinator gardens where hummingbirds and butterflies flock daily
Ideal for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and drought-tolerant plantings
Perfect for adding height in mixed perennial borders
Works well in cottage gardens and prairie-style designs
Adds fragrance and color when planted near patios or walkways
Pairs beautifully with coneflower, yarrow, rudbeckia, and ornamental grasses
Planting Tips - Agastache
Choose a full-sun location to promote strong stems and abundant flowering
Plant in well-drained, sandy, or average soil—Agastache prefers lean conditions
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for airflow and mature growth
Water regularly during establishment, then sparingly; overwatering reduces vigor
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering through fall
Avoid heavy fertilizing, which can cause floppy growth
In colder climates, apply light winter mulch to protect the crown
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Agastache cana |
| Variety Name: | Zuni |
| Height: | 30″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Summer |
| Bloom Cycle: | Deadhead for continuous rebloom |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-3 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Dry to medium moisture, well draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Agastache
Floppy stems: Caused by shade or nutrient-rich soil—plant in leaner soil with full sun
Root rot: A sign of poor drainage; improve soil structure or plant in raised beds
Weak flowering: Typically due to insufficient sunlight or excess moisture
Leaf yellowing: Usually from overwatering; allow the soil to dry between waterings
Winter loss: Common in poorly drained soils; ensure excellent drainage before planting
FAQ - Agastache
Q: Is Agastache ‘Zuni’ deer resistant?
A: Yes. Its aromatic foliage makes it highly deer and rabbit resistant.
Q: Is Agastache toxic to pets or people?
A: No. Agastache is considered non-toxic, though it’s primarily ornamental and not used for culinary purposes like anise hyssop.
Q: Does ‘Zuni’ attract pollinators?
A: Absolutely. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies visit frequently throughout its long bloom season.
Q: Is Agastache ‘Zuni’ a perennial?
A: Yes. It’s a hardy perennial in many regions, returning each year when planted in well-drained soil.
Q: Can Agastache be grown in containers?
A: Yes. It performs well in pots as long as drainage is excellent and the plant receives full sun.