Texas Hummingbird Mint

Texas hummingbird mint (Agastache cana) is an upright, woody-based perennial with gray-green leaves that smell like bubblegum when brushed. Its dark-pink tubular flowers rise in spikes and provide a long summer display for hummingbirds and butterflies. ## Landscape use Use it in a sunny border, pollinator planting, or dry garden where its upright flower stems can rise above lower plants. The species is native to mountainous parts of New Mexico and western Texas. Mature plants are commonly about 2–3 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide. The common name “mosquito plant” is also used for this species; its aromatic foliage is a distinguishing feature. ## Growing conditions The [Denver Botanic Gardens record](https://navigate.botanicgardens.org/weboi/oecgi2.exe/INET_ECM_DispPl?DETAIL=1&NAMENUM=11956&refreshlist=1&startpage=0) lists sun and hardiness to USDA zone 5. Utah’s [Conservation Garden Park profile](https://conservationgardenpark.jvwcd.gov/plants/681/texas-hummingbird-mint/) recommends full sun and low irrigation, while giving zones 5–9. Bloom timing varies by region: the park records August–September; other warm-climate references describe flowering through summer. Well-drained soil and supplemental water during establishment support reliable growth. ## Maintenance Remove faded flower spikes if you want to encourage another flush. Cut back stems that flop after blooming, then clear dead foliage as the plant becomes dormant. This is a short-lived perennial in many gardens, so plan to replace it when vigor declines.