This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, fertile soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to October
• Hardiness: hardy (borderline)
  
  Hyssops are great for adding vertical accents to a border, with whorls of long-lasting, tiny flowers arranged like a bottlebrush and pointed, aromatic fresh green leaves that are attractive to butterflies and bees. They are short-lived though, and may need replacing every few years, especially after a cold or wet winter. 'Blue Fortune' has loose spires of lilac-blue flowers from July to October and peppermint-scented leaves. This upright, bushy perennial is perfect for the middle of a sheltered, sunny border. Try it as part of a Mediterranean scheme, with grey-leaved plants, or among ornamental grasses.
  
  
• Garden care: Don't cut back the faded flower-stems until early spring, as they provide interest in the winter months. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring.