Written by Don Richardson


Anise Hyssop (Agastache Foeniculum)
Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
Size | 24-36″ tall, 18″-36″ wide |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Sandy Loam to Clay Loam – Must drain well |
Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
Bloom Time | Late Spring to Late Summer |
Hardiness Zones | 4-8 (USDA) |
Cold Hardiness | -20° F |
Native | Upper USA |
Pollination | Self pollinates |
Edible Plant | Yes - Flavoring |
Medicinal Plant | Yes |
Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.
The Agastache Foeniculum plant is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is also known as anise hyssop. This hardy perennial herb has been used in gardens and landscapes for many years due to its attractive blue-green foliage and showy purple flowers. Let's take a closer look at this beautiful plant, including its characteristics, uses, and care instructions.
Characteristics of the Agastache Foeniculum Plant
This plant grows in a clump form and can reach heights of up to two feet tall. Its leaves are lanceolate in shape with jagged edges and are typically blue-green in color. The flowers of the Agastache Foeniculum plant are tubular-shaped and come in shades of lavender or pink. The blooms appear from mid-summer through early fall, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. As the blossoms fade away, they leave behind small seed heads that resemble pinecones for added visual interest during winter months.
Uses of the Agastache Foeniculum Plant
The Agastache Foeniculum plant is not only aesthetically pleasing but it is also highly functional. It can be used as an edible herb; its leaves have a sweet licorice flavor that makes them great for adding to salads or teas, while its flowers can be used as a garnish or decoration on cakes or other desserts. Additionally, it can be planted near vegetables or fruit trees as a natural pesticide due to its strong scent which repels certain pests like aphids. In addition to being pest deterrents, these plants also attract friendly insects such as ladybugs who feed on destructive garden pests like aphids and spider mites. Finally, this herb is known for its medicinal properties; it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat conditions such as headaches, nausea, and digestive issues.
Caring for the Agastache Foeniculum Plant
The Agastache Foeniculum plant is easy to care for once established but does require some attention when first planted. It prefers full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil; if your soil tends towards clay or sandiness consider amending it with compost before planting your new herbaceous friend! Water regularly during dry spells; however be careful not to overwater as too much water can cause root rot which will kill your plants quickly! Finally provide regular fertilization throughout the growing season using organic fertilizer specifically formulated for herbs like these; this will help keep your plants healthy and happy all season long!
Conclusion:
The Agastache Foeniculum plant offers plenty of beauty along with practical benefits that make it ideal for any garden setting! With its attractive foliage, vibrant purple flowers, ability to repel pests naturally without harsh chemicals, plus its delicious licorice flavor—it’s no wonder why this perennial herb has been popular among gardeners since ancient times! By following proper care instructions such as providing adequate sunlight exposure, well-draining soil, regular watering during dry spells, plus occasional fertilization—you’ll be able to enjoy this stunning addition to your landscape year after year!
The Agastache Foeniculum plant offers plenty of beauty along with practical benefits that make it ideal for any garden setting! With its attractive foliage, vibrant purple flowers, ability to repel pests naturally without harsh chemicals, plus its delicious licorice flavor—it’s no wonder why this perennial herb has been popular among gardeners since ancient times! By following proper care instructions such as providing adequate sunlight exposure, well-draining soil, regular watering during dry spells, plus occasional fertilization—you’ll be able to enjoy this stunning addition to your landscape year after year!

When it comes to taking care of your furry friends while you are away from home, there are a few options available. One popular choice is taking your pets to your veterinarian or a boarding kennel to stay, or having friends, neighbors or family members stop by your home to care for them.
These options are helpful and get the job done, but have you ever considered hiring a professional pet sitter to take care of your pets instead? The next few paragraphs will explore why having a pet sitter come to your home is a better option than boarding your pets or depending on friends, neighbors and/or family members to do it.
The Everglades tomato, or Solanum pimpinellifolium, is a plant native to the Florida Everglades. It is an important source of nutrition for native wildlife and humans alike. This article will provide an overview of this unique species, discussing its characteristics and benefits.
Written by Don Richardson


Plant Type | Perennial Shrub |
Size | Upto 12’ tall - Spreads |
Sun Exposure | Full Sun - Part Shade |
Soil Type | all |
Soil pH | 6.8-7.2 prefers slightly acidic |
Bloom Time | Spring - Fall |
Hardiness Zones | 4a-10b Florida Native Plant |
Moisture | Moist, rich, well drained |
Cold/Heat | -20°F – |
Pollination | Self-pollinates |
Edible Plant | Yes – Berries only cooked |
Medicinal Plant | Yes |
Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.
The Sambucus Simpsonii, or elderberry plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The elderberry plant is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow to be up to 12 feet tall. The elderberry plant has dark green leaves and produces small white flowers that turn into dark purple berries. The berries of the elderberry plant are used in pies, jams, and wine. The elderberry plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat colds, flu, and other ailments for centuries.
The History of the Elderberry Plant
The elderberry plant was introduced to North America by European settlers in the 1600s. The history of elderberries dates back centuries. Native Americans used elderberries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The plant was also used by early settlers in North America as a food source. Elderberries can be made into jams, pies, wines, and cordials.
During World War II, British pilots ate elderberry jam to prevent getting homesick. It was thought that the sweetness of the jam would help boost morale. After the war ended, interest in elderberries declined due to their short shelf life and lack of availability.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in elderberries due to their health benefits. Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and E. They are also a good source of fiber and potassium. Studies have shown that elderberries can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and fight off viral infections.
The Uses of the Elderberry Plant
The berries of the elderberry plant are used in pies, jams, and wine. In recent years, elderberries have gained popularity as a superfood due to their high levels of antioxidants and vitamins.
The elderberry plant is also known for its medicinal properties. Studies have shown that elderberry juice can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and fight off viral infections. If you're looking for a delicious way to improve your health, add some elderberries to your diet!
How to Grow Your Own Elderberry Plant
If you're interested in growing your own elderberry plant, you'll be happy to know that they are relatively easy to care for. Elderberries prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They prefer well-drained soil but are tolerant of a variety of soil types. Elderberries are generally low-maintenance plants but may need occasional pruning to keep them from getting too large.
Conclusion:
The Sambucus Simpsonii, or elderberry plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The elderberry plant is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow to be up to 12 feet tall. The elderberry plant has dark green leaves and produces small white flowers that turn into dark purple berries. The berries of the elderberry plant are used in pies, jams, and wine. The elderberry plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat colds, flu, and other ailments for centuries. If you're interested in growing your own elderberry plant, you'll be happy to know that they are relatively easy to care for.
The Sambucus Simpsonii, or elderberry plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The elderberry plant is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow to be up to 12 feet tall. The elderberry plant has dark green leaves and produces small white flowers that turn into dark purple berries. The berries of the elderberry plant are used in pies, jams, and wine. The elderberry plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat colds, flu, and other ailments for centuries. If you're interested in growing your own elderberry plant, you'll be happy to know that they are relatively easy to care for.
Written by Don Richardson


Plant Type | Perennial Vine |
Size | 30’ tall, 8’ wide |
Sun Exposure | part sun – full shade |
Soil Type | sand, loam |
Soil pH | 5.0-7.0 acidic – neutral - loam |
Bloom Time | Summer - Fall |
Hardiness Zones | 8a-11 Food Forest Plant |
Moisture | Moist, rich, well drained |
Cold/Heat | 15°F – |
Pollination | Self-pollinates |
Edible Plant | Yes – Raw or cooked spice |
Medicinal Plant | Yes |
Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.
The Piper Sarmentosum, also known as the Pepper Leaf or Betel Leaf plant, is a species of flowering vine native to Southeast Asia. It is most commonly used as a flavoring and aroma enhancer in traditional Asian dishes such as laksa and nasi lemak. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine and has gained popularity recently due to its purported health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore what exactly the Piper Sarmentosum is, how it can be used, and why it should be included in your diet.
Description of the Plant
The Piper Sarmentosum is an evergreen vine that grows mainly in tropical climates such as Malaysia and Indonesia. It belongs to the pepper family and is closely related to black pepper. Its leaves are glossy green with a pointed tip and have a unique flavor. Its taste has been described as sweet, spicy, and sour all at once. The flavor is often compared to that of peppermint or green tea with a slight bitterness. The plant also produces small white flowers that have a sweet smell.
Traditional Uses
For centuries, the Piper Sarmentosum has been used in traditional medicine and cuisine across Southeast Asia. In terms of medicinal uses, the leaves are said to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation in the body. They are also believed to have antibacterial properties that can help fight off infections caused by bacteria. Additionally, consuming Piper Sarmentosum has long been thought to improve digestion and overall health.
In terms of culinary uses, one of the most popular dishes made using Piper Sarmentosum leaves is curry laksa – a spicy noodle soup dish popular throughout Malaysia. The leaves are added to give the soup an extra tangy kick while still providing a balanced flavor profile. The leaves can also be eaten raw or cooked into other dishes such as stir fries or salads.
Health Benefits
The Piper Sarmentosum plant is full of antioxidants and vitamins C, E and B-complex which are essential for a healthy diet. Recent studies suggest that consuming Piper Sarmentosum may offer various health benefits due to its high concentration of polyphenols – compounds found naturally occurring in plants shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, it’s been hypothesized that the polyphenols found in this plant may improve cardiovascular health by reducing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL) as well as blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes. Other potential health benefits include lower blood pressure levels, improved digestive health, enhanced immunity against infection, and reduced risk for certain types of cancer.
Conclusion:
There are many reasons why the Piper Sarmentosum plant should be included in your diet including its health benefits and unique flavor profile. It adds an interesting twist to traditional Asian dishes while providing valuable nutrients that are beneficial for your health. So next time you’re at the grocery store, consider picking up some Pepper Leaf! for culinary inspiration or want to take advantage of its potential health benefits – incorporating more Pepper Leaf plants into your diet might just be worth it!
There are many reasons why the Piper Sarmentosum plant should be included in your diet including its health benefits and unique flavor profile. It adds an interesting twist to traditional Asian dishes while providing valuable nutrients that are beneficial for your health. So next time you’re at the grocery store, consider picking up some Pepper Leaf! for culinary inspiration or want to take advantage of its potential health benefits – incorporating more Pepper Leaf plants into your diet might just be worth it!