Anise Hyssop

Anise Hyssop, also known as Anise mint, giant blue hyssop, and licorice mint, is a delectably scentful plant.  I've grown it for two years now; and it is a beautiful addition to any garden.
    
      This perennial grows up to 2 feet high and spreads about 1 foot wide.  Of course, the size of the plant would depend on the soil that it is planted in, the amount of moisture it receives, and how much sunlight shines on it.  It's blossoms, which are often called spikes, are a lovely soft purple color.  It's leaves are mid-green color tinged with purplish-brown.  There are several varieties of Anise Hyssop, one of which grows in the zone 8 areas(like Georgia).  However, most of the varieties are best grown in zones 4 and 5 (Indiana area).   Check out the pictures that are posted to see what a lovely plant this is.  Unfortunately, I have no pictures of my own as my plants suffered during the dry summer.

     Anise Hyssop is known for its strong Anise-like flavor of licorice.  Hence, its name, Anise mint. 

     Now, what uses does this herb have?  As of yet, I have found no medicinal purposes.  It is, however, used in cooking.

     The fresh leaves can be a flavorful addition to salads and
 can be used as a seasoning for nearly any dish, such as meats and rices.  The leaves can also be used in teas, either fresh or dried.  The flowers, having been stripped off of the stem, can be used in decorating both savory and sweet dishes, as well as being frozen in ice cubes for a colorful glass of ice tea.  I have
made tea using an interesting method.  Take a bunch of leaves and about 2 quarts of water and combine in a large mixing bowl.  Then crush, press, and twist leaves in water until the water is tea-colored.  Strain and add sugar or honey to the Anise Hyssop tea (dilution may be necessary as the flavor can be very strong) and pour over ice in a glass.  This drink has a very distinct licorice flavor and has a rather interesting texture.

     This herb, because of its strong scent, can be used in the making of potpourri.  I have recently been doing a lot of pressing and drying for making my own stationary.  I have not pressed this plant yet, but it would be beautiful pressed and then glued to the front of a card and sent to a friend.  Bunches of Anise Hyssop can be tied together, hung upside down to dry, and then used as decoration in the house.

I hope that you have enjoyed what I have shared about Anise Hyssop.  I am excitedly looking forward to next week!  I will not divulge what I have planned, but I will say that it will be just as delightful...but a lot slimier:)