Horsemint (Agastache urticifolia) blooming in Wawona Meadow, Yosemite Park

Horsemint (Agastache urticifolia)

Also Known As:  Nettle-Leaf Giant Hyssop

Family:   Mint (Lamiaceae)

Horsemint is a water lover, commonly found in the Yosemite Valley meadows and Wawona Meadow and making appearances in other moist locations up to 8,000 feet. It's the tallest member of the mint family to grow in Yosemite, ranging from two to six feet high, and its name is mildly satisfying to say out loud when things are going badly.

Blooms:  June - August

Lifespan:  Perennial

Origins:  Native (see distribution maps for California and US/Canada)

Agastache urticifolia etymology:  Agastache is Greek for "many-spiked" (referring to the flowers) and urticifolia is Latin for "nettle-leaved" (probably referring to the leaves).

Other Resources:   CalFlora  ·  CalPhotos  ·  USDA

This Photo:  In Wawona Meadow, early July

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