Hyssopus officinalis.

Varieties

There are three varieties, the white, red, and blue; the last of which is most commonly cultivated.

Soil And Situation

A dry soil is the one most appropriate for it. If on a rich or wet one, it is generally destroyed by the frost, as well as rendered less aromatic.

Time And Mode Of Propagation

It is propagated by seed, and slips of the branches, and young shoots, as well as by offsets. The seed may be sown from the close of February until the end of May. Rooted offsets may be planted in March, April, August and September; cuttings of the branches in April and May; and slips of young shoots in June or July. The seed may be inserted in drills, six inches apart, not deeper than half an inch. It is the usual practice, when the seedlings have attained the growth of six weeks, to prick them out twelve inches apart; but it is by much the best practice to raise them where they are to remain.

The slips and offsets are best planted at first in a shady or north border: they are generally firmly rooted in two months. In September or October they are all fit for removal to their final stations. After every removal they must be watered plentifully and regularly until established. The only subsequent cultivation requisite is the keeping them free of weeds by frequent hoeings.

In spring and autumn likewise all decayed branches and flower-stalks must be removed; those used as edgings trimmed close, and the earth gently stirred around them.