Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Agastache mexicana 'Balsumlem'
Summerlong Lemon Mexican Giant Hyssop
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Height
- 16 to 22 inches
- Width
- 16 to 22 inches
- Flower color
- Bright yellow
- Foliage color
- Green, fragrant
- Bloom time
- Early summer through fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Easy; prefers well-drained soil
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 7a to 10b
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and hummingbirds
About this plant
Agastache mexicana 'Balsumlem' is a long-blooming perennial that produces dense spikes of soft yellow flowers from early summer through fall. The tubular blossoms emerge in pale lemon tones, contrasting against the plant's deep green, aromatic foliage. This variety is highly attractive to pollinators, drawing in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season.
The foliage releases a refreshing citrusy-mint fragrance when touched, adding another layer of interest to the plant. Its well-branched, bushy habit ensures a full and tidy appearance, making it a great choice for borders, pollinator gardens, and container plantings. Compared to other Agastache mexicana varieties, 'Balsumlem' stands out for its soft yellow bloom color and extended flowering period.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Sedums · Peonies · Coneflowers · Salvias · Shasta daisies · Asters
Design tip
Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
