In its wild form, hyssop only occurs in warmer areas. There it inhabits rocky landscapes with dry, calcareous soils. Hyssop has been cultivated as a spice and medicinal herb north of the Alps since the Middle Ages.
Which location is best for hyssop?
For hyssop, a location in full sun is ideal, on well-drained, calcareous soil and well protected from wind. The plant tolerates drought and offers advantages in the neighborhood of vegetables.
Hyssop is a hardy subshrub with ascending stems, coarse, elongated leaves and dark blue flowers in dense false spikes. Its botanical name Hyssopus officinalis comes from Hebrew. In Jewish and Catholic customs, the plant used to be used as a sprinkle of holy water.
Hyssop prefers a location in full sun, but is otherwise an easy-care plant that thrives in poor soil. When growing in your own garden, the following points should be taken into account in relation to the location:
- a sunny, wind-protected location,
- permeable, calcareous soil,
- Drought is well tolerated,
- Neighborhood with vegetables is beneficial.
Tip
Hyssop is an excellent food plant for butterflies and insects. However, its strong scent is not particularly appreciated by pests.
