Agastache urticifolia (Benth.) Kuntze

Species Identity

Agastache urticifolia (Benth.) Kuntze is an aromatic perennial herb that produces an erect stem with widely spaced leaves.

Leaf Morphology

Each leaf is lance-shaped to nearly triangular, toothed, and can grow up to 8 centimeters long and 7 centimeters wide.

Inflorescence Structure

Its inflorescence is a dense spike made up of many flowers.

Flower Characteristics

Each individual flower has long sepals tipped with bright purple, and tubular corollas in shades of pink and purple.

Fruit Traits

The fruit is a light brown, fuzzy nutlet approximately 2 millimeters long.

Distribution & Habitat

This species is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California to Colorado, and grows in many different habitat types.

Edible Uses

Dried leaves and flowers of this plant can be used to make tea.

Medicinal Uses

Several Native American groups used this plant medicinally, especially its leaves, to treat rheumatism, upset stomachs, and colds.