Flaming Red Spires: The Allure of Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ in Your Garden

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’, commonly known as Hummingbird Mint or Hyssop, is a stunning perennial. It commands attention with its vibrant red-orange blooms and aromatic foliage. Part of the Lamiaceae family, which includes other well-loved herbs like mint and lavender. This plant is a hybrid that offers both beauty and resilience, making it an excellent addition to gardens in USDA zones 6 through 10. The Kudos™ Series, to which this variety belongs, is popular for its compact growth habit and exceptional tolerance to powdery mildew, ensuring a long-lasting and visually striking display from summer to fall.

Plant Family and Origin

Agastache, often referred to as Giant Hyssop is a genus encompassing around 30 species of upright herbaceous perennials. Most species within this genus are native to North America, thriving in diverse environments from prairies to rocky slopes. The genus name “Agastache” comes from the Greek words “agan,” meaning “very much,” and “stachys,” meaning “ear of wheat,” in reference to the plant’s flower spikes. Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is a hybrid selection that embodies the best qualities of its parent species, offering enhanced flower showiness and winter hardiness.

Description

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ forms a compact, bushy mound of dark green, oval to lance-shaped leaves. They release a pleasant minty fragrance when crushed. This aromatic foliage is not just a sensory delight but also serves as a deterrent to deer and rabbits, making it a resilient choice for gardens frequented by wildlife.

From early summer until fall, this perennial bursts into bloom with airy spikes of vivid red-orange flowers. These glowing trumpets climb up branching stems, creating lush spires that reach a height of 12 to 20 inches (30 to 50 cm), with a spread of up to 25 inches (62 cm). The flowers are not only visually stunning but also attract a host of pollinators, including hummingbirds and butterflies, who feast on the nectar-rich blossoms.

Care Instructions for Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’:

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is ideal for xeriscaping, as it has low water requirements once established. Here’s how to care for this vibrant perennial:

Light: Full sun is ideal for optimal growth and blooming. The plant can tolerate some light shade, but too much shade may reduce flower production.
Soil: Plant in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Good drainage is crucial, especially in winter, to prevent root rot. This plant performs best in soils that are not too rich, as overly fertile soil can lead to lanky growth.
Watering: While Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is drought-tolerant, it may require watering during prolonged dry spells, especially in extreme heat. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in late fall or late winter is sufficient. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can lead to reduced flowering and weaker stems.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. In early spring, cut back any dead or damaged stems to promote healthy new growth. Leaving the stems in place over winter can provide extra protection in colder climates.
Pests and Diseases: Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is generally pest and disease-free, but it can occasionally be susceptible to powdery mildew. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent this issue.

Propagation

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ can be propagated by seed or division:

Seed Propagation: Sow seeds indoors in early spring, about 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and cover the seeds lightly with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the trays in a warm, sunny location. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Division: In early spring, when the plant begins to show new growth, carefully dig up the clump and divide it into smaller sections using a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have a healthy root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant, spacing them about 24 inches (60 cm) apart to allow for growth.

Uses in the Garden

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is a versatile plant that adds bold color and texture to various garden settings. It is perfect for:

Borders and Edging: Its compact growth habit and vibrant flowers make it an excellent choice for the front of borders or as an edging plant along pathways.
Containers: This plant performs beautifully in containers, where its upright spires can create a striking focal point. Combine it with other sun-loving perennials or annuals for a dynamic display.
Cottage Gardens: Its long bloom season and attraction to pollinators make it a natural fit for cottage gardens, where it can be paired with other classic perennials like coneflowers and salvias.
Wildlife Gardens: Plant Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ in a wildlife garden to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, contributing to the biodiversity of your garden.

Conclusion

Agastache ‘Kudos™ Red’ is a remarkable perennial that brings vibrant color, delightful fragrance, and low-maintenance charm to any garden. Whether planted in borders, containers, or wildlife gardens, this hummingbird magnet will reward you with months of blooms and minimal care requirements. Its drought tolerance and resistance to deer make it a practical and beautiful choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.