Anise hyssop is a lovely plant that grows well in our climate. This edible licorice flavored member of the mint family can be grown from seed, divided from another plant or purchased at a nursery.
Minty anisey and delicious!
Here are some of its many uses:
- Cut flowers
- Dried flowers – the flower heads dry to a pretty navy blue
- Pot pourri – it blends well with lavender and lemon balm
- Tea – it makes a nice tea on its own or can be combined with lemon balm and/or chamomile, it is reputed to calm nerves
- Addition to fruit salad – the minced leaves add zest
- Flavoring for sweet breads or cookies – mince flowers and add them to the dough for an anise touch
- Sprig in a glass of ice tea – simple but tasty
This plant will self seed and it’s roots will run underground as will other members of the mint family but it is not invasive. It is beloved by rabbits but supposedly avoided by deer.
Let me know if you find other delicious uses for this delicate herb!
I'd love to hear from you!