The Tango Hummingbird Mint (Agastache rupestris ‘Tango’) is a vibrant addition to gardens, known for its distinctive color and aromatic foliage. It offers both visual interest and a pleasant sensory experience. This plant is a popular choice for enhancing garden aesthetics with minimal effort.
Key Characteristics of Tango Hummingbird Mint
The Tango Hummingbird Mint grows 2 to 3 feet tall with a similar spread, forming an upright, bushy perennial. Its orange flowers, often described as burnt orange or tangerine, appear on tall spikes above the foliage. These tubular blossoms are arranged in whorls along the stems, creating a dense display. The bloom period extends from early summer through fall, providing continuous color.
The foliage of Agastache rupestris ‘Tango’ releases a distinctive, minty-licorice fragrance when brushed or crushed, adding a sensory dimension to the garden. As a perennial, it returns year after year, establishing itself as a reliable presence. Its upright structure and consistent bloom make it a focal point in various garden designs.
Planting and Care Guide
Light Requirements
Tango Hummingbird Mint thrives in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. Insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy growth and reduced flower production.
Soil Preferences
This plant performs best in well-draining soil, as it is susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions. A lean to moderately fertile soil is ideal, emphasizing good drainage over high organic content. Amending heavy clay soils with grit or sand can improve drainage. The plant tolerates a range of soil pH levels, preferring slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Watering Needs
After initial planting, regular watering is necessary to help the Tango Hummingbird Mint establish a strong root system. Once established, the plant exhibits drought tolerance, requiring infrequent watering. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root issues. During prolonged dry spells, especially in hot climates, supplemental watering may be beneficial to maintain plant vigor.
Temperature and Hardiness
Tango Hummingbird Mint is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9, tolerating both heat and cold well within these zones. In colder climates, providing a layer of mulch around the base in late fall can offer winter protection. Its adaptability contributes to its popularity in diverse garden settings.
Fertilization
This plant requires minimal fertilization, as it prefers lean soil conditions. Excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flower production. If your soil is particularly poor, a light application of a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring can provide a gentle boost. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leafy growth over blooms.
Attracting Hummingbirds and Pollinators
The tubular shape of the Tango Hummingbird Mint’s flowers is well-suited for hummingbirds, whose long beaks can easily access the nectar deep within the blossoms. The vibrant orange color also acts as a visual beacon, drawing these agile birds to the garden. The consistent and extended bloom period ensures a reliable food source for hummingbirds throughout the growing season.
Beyond hummingbirds, the nectar-rich flowers attract various other beneficial pollinators, including bee species and butterflies. The plant provides essential sustenance for these insects, supporting local biodiversity and creating a dynamic garden ecosystem.
Pruning and Maintenance
Routine pruning of Tango Hummingbird Mint helps maintain its shape, promotes continuous blooming, and encourages plant vigor. Deadheading spent flower spikes throughout the summer encourages more blooms, extending its display. This practice redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to further flowering.
In late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges, cut the plant back to about 6 inches from the ground. This rejuvenates the plant, promoting a fresh flush of growth and more robust flowering. Tango Hummingbird Mint is resistant to common pests and diseases, simplifying its maintenance. Its natural hardiness reduces the need for chemical interventions, contributing to a healthier garden environment.