Hyssopus officinalis L.

Subshrubs. Stems 20-50(-80) cm, much branched, striate, pubescent. Leaves sessile, linear to lanceolate, 1-4 cm × 2-7 mm, glabrous, glandular, scabrous and finely strigose along margin, base attenuate to cuneate, margin slightly involute, apex obtuse. Verticillasters 3-7-flowered, axillary, secund, in spikes ca. 4 cm or sometimes in panicles to 10 cm; peduncle less than 1 mm; bracts and bracteoles linear-subulate, apex acute, longer than pedicels, 3-5 mm. Pedicel 0.5-1.5 mm. Calyx tubular, ca. 7.5 mm, veins puberulent, glandular between veins; teeth triangular-lanceolate, ca. 2.5 mm, apex short spinescent. Corolla bluish to purple, ca. 1 cm, puberulent; tube ca. 7 mm, nearly included; upper lip ovate, erect, ca. 2.5 mm, 2-lobed; lower lip spreading, middle lobe wider than ovate lateral lobes. Anterior stamens much exserted. Ovary glabrous. Fl. Jun.

It is a temperate plant. It needs well drained soils. It can grow in shade or full sun. It can tolerate dry conditions once established. It suits plant hardiness zones 3-9. In Hobart Botanical gardens.

The essential oil is used for flavouring liqueurs. The young leaves are used to flavour soups, sauces and meats. They have a spicy smell and slightly bitter taste. Sundried leaves are also used in fish dishes and as stuffing in meats. The flowers are added to salads. The dried leaves can be used for tea.

Plants can be grown from seed, cuttings or division. Plants can be pruned.