Blue Hyssop ‘Nectar Blue’ – Aromatic Blooms that Sustain Pollinators
Blue Hyssop ‘Nectar Blue’ (Hyssopus officinalis) is a compact, upright perennial herb valued for its aromatic foliage and vibrant violet-blue flower spikes that appear from midsummer into early fall. Our drought-tolerant hyssop plants thrives in full sun and lean, well-drained soil, making it an easy choice for low-maintenance borders, herb gardens, and pollinator habitats. Its nectar-rich blooms draw bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, while the leaves release a pleasant herbal scent when brushed. A traditional medicinal herb with ornamental appeal, ‘Nectar Blue’ combines beauty, fragrance, and resilience in one long-lived perennial.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for herb gardens, rock gardens, or sunny perennial borders
Adds color and fragrance to pollinator-friendly plantings
Works well in containers or raised beds where drainage is sharp
Pairs attractively with lavender, sage, and coneflower for a cohesive dry-garden look
Suitable for xeriscaping or Mediterranean-style landscapes
Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds through its long bloom season
Planting Tips - Blue Hyssop
Choose a full-sun site with well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soil
Avoid heavy clay soils that retain water; amend with sand or grit if needed
Water deeply but infrequently once established; drought-tolerant plants perform best when not overwatered
Space 12–18 inches apart to promote airflow and prevent mildew
Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage rebloom
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Hyssopus Officinalis |
| Variety Name: | Nectar Blue |
| Height: | 20″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Continuous |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-3 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Average, dry to medium moisture, well-draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Blue Hyssop
Powdery mildew: Can appear in humid or crowded conditions; thin plants for airflow and avoid overhead watering
Root rot: Results from poor drainage; plant in raised beds or amend soil to improve drainage
Sparse blooms: Often from too much shade or excess nitrogen; move to a sunnier, leaner site
Leggy growth: Cut back by one-third after flowering to maintain a dense habit
FAQ - Blue Hyssop
Q: Is hyssop plant edible or used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and often used to flavor teas or liqueurs, though the flavor can be strong and should be used sparingly.
Q: Is hyssop toxic to pets or people?
A: Hyssop is generally considered safe when grown ornamentally, but large quantities may be harmful if ingested. It’s best to supervise pets and avoid allowing them to eat it.
Q: How often should I prune a hyssop plant?
A: Trim lightly after flowering to shape the plant and promote dense new growth. A harder cut in early spring rejuvenates older plants.
Q: Will Blue Hyssop ‘Nectar Blue’ reseed?
A: Yes, it may self-seed modestly in well-drained soil, though it rarely becomes invasive and is easy to manage.