Family: Lamiaceae
Hyssopus officinalis

Used as a symbol of humility in religious paint­ings, hyssop has been known since antiquity in southern parts of Europe and central Asia. Its aromatic leaves are made into a tea used for res­piratory problems and as an aid to digestion. They are also used fresh as a flavoring for soups and salads. Oil of hyssop, obtained from the roots, is used in some liqueurs and colognes. H. officinalis is a shrubby, perennial herb, to 45-60 cm (18-24 in) in height, with narrow, dark green leaves and small blue flowers. There are ornamental varieties, whose flowers are white, rose or red.

Cultivation

Plant in a reasonably fertile, well-drained, ideally alkaline soil in a sunny spot. Propagate from soft stem cuttings in summer or from seed in autumn, germinated in a garden frame.

Climate

Zone 3.