Is Sunset Hyssop good for the Colorado Front Range?

Yes, Sunset Hyssop is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.

How far apart do I plant Sunset Hyssop?

Space Sunset Hyssop about 17 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 24 in apart for a looser planting.

Is Sunset Hyssop hardy on the Front Range?

Sunset Hyssop is hardy in USDA 4 to 10. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.

How much water does Sunset Hyssop need?

It needs low water once established.

Is Sunset Hyssop native to Colorado?

No. It is not a Colorado native, but it grows well on the Front Range.

Is Sunset Hyssop deer-resistant?

Sunset Hyssop is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.

How long does Sunset Hyssop bloom?

Sunset Hyssop blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.

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Sunset Hyssop

Agastache rupestris

Compiled by Nicholas Julia · Reviewed against CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-10-30

Sunset Hyssop (Agastache rupestris) is a perennial suited to the Colorado Front Range. It matures to about 24 to 36 in tall and 18 to 24 in wide, needs low water, and prefers full sun. Orange and lavender tubular flowers; very drought tolerant; hummingbird magnet.

On the CSU listlow water24 to 36 in tall and 18 to 24 in wideXeric / water-wiseDeer-resistant

Photos

Photo 1: Atilin, Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Photo 2: photo by Charlie McDonald; uploaded by Xiaphias, Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Photo 3: photo by Charlie McDonald; uploaded by Xiaphias, Wikimedia Commons (PD)

At a glance

Will it survive here?

Hardiness zones: USDA 4 to 10
Water needs: low water
Sun: Best in full sun.
Soil: clay, loam, sandy
Soil pH: 6.5 to 8.0
Hail tolerance: high
Wind tolerance: high
Salt tolerance: moderate
Site uses: Slopes & erosion control, Hot south- or west-facing walls

How big, what shape?

Mature size: 24 to 36 in tall and 18 to 24 in wide
Planting spacing: ~17 to 24 in apart

What it looks like, and when

Bloom time: mid summer, late summer
Bloom color: orange, purple
Bloom length: Long (several weeks)
Foliage: Deciduous

Who else benefits

Pollinator value: high
Deer: Generally deer-resistant
Colorado native: No

Also worth knowing

Fire rating: Not rated

Planting & establishment

Deep-water first season to establish, then minimal water needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sunset Hyssop good for the Colorado Front Range?: Yes, Sunset Hyssop is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.
How big does Sunset Hyssop get?: It matures to about 24 to 36 in tall and 18 to 24 in wide.
How far apart do I plant Sunset Hyssop?: Space Sunset Hyssop about 17 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 24 in apart for a looser planting.
Is Sunset Hyssop hardy on the Front Range?: Sunset Hyssop is hardy in USDA 4 to 10. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.
How much water does Sunset Hyssop need?: It needs low water once established.
Is Sunset Hyssop native to Colorado?: No. It is not a Colorado native, but it grows well on the Front Range.
Is Sunset Hyssop deer-resistant?: Sunset Hyssop is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.
How long does Sunset Hyssop bloom?: Sunset Hyssop blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.