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Friday, July 13, 2012
Plant of the Week: Blue Hyssop
Blue hyssop is an upright, clump-forming perennial of the mint family that's native to parts of the upper Midwest and Great Plains. It's noted for its mid- to late-summer bloom of lavender to purple flowers and anise-scented foliage. The flowers appear in false whorls, which are densely packed into cylindrical, terminal flower spikes. Their nectar is attractive to bees, hummingbirds and butterflies.
Common Names: giant blue hyssop, anise hyssop
Scientific Name: Agastache foeniculum
Native Status: Canada through Northern U.S.
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
Height: 2–4 feet
Flowering Time: June–September
Flower Color: Purple, lavender
Interest: Attracts bees, hummingbirds and butterflies
Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
By transforming the South Pond into Nature Boardwalk, Lincoln Park Zoo has created an urban ecosystem in the heart of the city. Enjoy a virtual view as native plants and animals establish themselves in this rare refuge.
As Lincoln Park Zoo’s director of horticulture, Brian oversees the zoo’s gardens, from bud to bloom.
As coordinator of wildlife management, Mason chronicles the bugs, birds, fish, insects, mammals and more that make their homes at Nature Boardwalk.
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