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Agastache 'Blue Fortune'
blue fortune hummingbird mint
Garden hybrid (Agastache foeniculum × Agastache rugosa parentage)
Overview
Agastache 'Blue Fortune' is an upright, clump-forming perennial reaching 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) tall and 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) wide. This hybrid cultivar is a cross between A. foeniculum and A. rugosa. Stems are square in cross-section, branching from the base, with opposite, gray-green leaves 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) long with toothed margins. Foliage is aromatic, releasing a mint-anise scent when bruised. Flower spikes are dense, cylindrical, 3–6 inches (8–15 cm) long, composed of densely packed lavender-blue tubular flowers. Bloom occurs July through October, with individual spikes lasting 3–4 weeks and successive spikes extending the total bloom period to 8–10 weeks. Unlike A. foeniculum, this cultivar is a sterile hybrid and does not self-seed. Growth rate is moderate; plants reach mature size within 1–2 growing seasons. Stems become somewhat woody at the base in mild climates. Plants are short-lived in heavy, wet winter soils, typically declining after 3–4 years in poorly drained conditions. Root rot (Pythium spp., Phytophthora spp. species) develops in waterlogged soils. Foliage is generally avoided by deer and rabbits.
Native Range
'Blue Fortune' is a garden hybrid, a cross between A. foeniculum (native to central and northern North America) and A. rugosa (native to eastern Asia). The cultivar originated in the Netherlands.Suggested Uses
Commonly planted in perennial borders, pollinator gardens, and herb gardens at 18–24 inch (45–60 cm) spacing. Sterile hybrid does not self-seed, making it suited to formal plantings. Not suited to heavy clay soils, waterlogged winter sites, or shaded locations with fewer than 6 hours of direct sun.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 3'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Bloom Information
Flowers July through October in zones 5–9. Individual flower spikes last 3–4 weeks; successive spikes extend the total bloom period to 8–10 weeks. In zone 9, bloom may begin in late June. Bloom decreases in late September in zones 5–6 as temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Gray-green, aromatic, opposite, toothed marginsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Water sparingly once established; plants tolerate drought and decline in overwatered conditions. Well-drained soil is critical — root rot develops in waterlogged winter soils, reducing lifespan to 2–3 years in heavy clay. Plants require full sun for 6 or more hours daily; stems become lax and flowering decreases in partial shade. No regular fertilization is needed; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Spider mites may develop in hot, dry conditions. Plants are short-lived in humid climates with heavy winter soils, typically persisting 3–5 years.Pruning
Cut all stems to 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) above ground in early spring (March–April) before new growth emerges. Dried flower spikes can be left through winter for structure and seed-head interest. Deadheading spent spikes during the growing season encourages a second flush of flowers. Do not cut stems back in fall, as the dried structure protects the crown from winter moisture.Pruning Schedule
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early spring
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons