HYSSOP SEEDS

Hyssopus officinalis ‘Blankyt'

An ancient herb, and one with an oft misrepresented history. This species is not the Biblical hyssop, which is almost certainly a species of Oregano or Thyme. This hyssop is listed in centuries-old herbals as being native to Siberia and abundant in the Austrian Alps. Indeed, true Hyssop is very hardy and thrives in cold mountainous regions.

Long employed in the treatment of cough and catarrh, Hyssop is possibly put to best use in a medicinal syrup or lozenge. The flavor and fragrance of the fresh herb is intense, and the long cooking and maceration involved in the aforementioned preparations effectively softens the pungency of Hyssop whilst capturing its useful volatile components.

This German selection produces large attractive plants with uniformly blue flowers that are beloved by bees and butterflies. Hyssop is most happy in dry soils and full sun. Plants will flop in rich shaded soils. Beautiful with Sangria Agastache and Tangerine Gem marigolds. Deerproof and drought-tolerant once established. Hardy to at least zone 4.

Start indoors. Press seeds into moist soil and just barely dust with fine vermiculite. Mist generously and cover with plastic. Kept warm and moist in bright light, seeds will begin to germinate within two weeks or so. Uncover promptly once a few seeds have germinated. Prick out seedlings with true leaves to grow on in individual pots or cells at warm room temperature in bright light. Do not overwater. Pinch to encourage branching once plants have several sets of true leaves. Harden off thoroughly before planting outdoors in to warm well-drained soil in full sun.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.