The Colorado 2009 Plant Select Program offering, agastache “pstessnee,” is a genus of nine to 12 species, most of which are native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Others are scattered here and there in Asia, Europe and the rest of the United States. The genus is a member of the mint family of perennial herbs and so has square stems and fragrant foliage.

As if boasting beautiful form, a great variety of nectar rich flowers in a multitude of colors and fragrances from bubblegum to root beer weren’t enough, the genus is also a magnet for wildlife.

Hummers really like the red and orange flowered varieties while butterflies seem to prefer the blue varieties. Bees aren’t choosey and seem to like any they can find.

Agastache “pstessnee” is the fourth member of this genus to be selected. (Agastache rupestris 1997; Agastache aurantiaca 2001; Agastache cana 2002). It’s dainty, tubular, flowers range from brilliant crimson to deep maroon and last from mid-summer to first frost.

Growing 15-18 inches in height and 12-15 inches in width it makes a great border plant. Its USDA zones 5-9 (up to 6,000) feet make it a tender perennial in Elbert County, but with a little care it will perform as well as its cousins.

Choosing the right place and giving it some winter protection will help Coronado’s chances of overwintering.

The culture for this plant holds true for all the native Agastache. They prefer full sun, but will tolerate some light shade. Moderate watering until established and then it is relatively xeric. They are not picky as to soil type seeming to flourish in clay, loam or sandy loam but do somewhat better in well drained locations.

They also make a great container plant and mix nicely with other tender perennials and annuals to make showy displays.

Agastache is relatively free of diseases and pests. Fungal diseases such as rust or powdery mildew can affect the leaves during hot humid weather if the circulation around the plant is not good, so giving them a bit of space is advisable.

They are well worth a little effort and offer a grand return in fragrance, wildlife attraction and color for your efforts.

Program volunteer network strives to enhance Coloradans’ quality of life by extending knowledge-based education throughout Colorado communities to foster successful gardeners.

For more information call the CSU Extension, Elbert County Master Gardener office at 303-621-3162.

For additional information or to find retailers that carry the Plant Select plants, visit www.plantselect.org.

Dianne White is a Colorado master gardener.