Agastache rugosa

A perennial plant that produces flavorful green mint leaves and intense blue flowers. Young leaves smell like licorice. Excellent in salads, stir-fries, and for seasoning meats and other dishes. Also makes a pleasing tea. Used for long lasting cut flowers and for cooking. Attracts beneficial insects. Korean mint is commonly used in Chinese herbalism, where it is considered to be one of the 50 fundamental herbs. Considered to be a "warming" herb, it is used in situations where there is "dampness" within the digestive system, resulting in poor digestion and reduced vitality. The leaves and stems are said to be antibacterial, antifungal, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge and stomachic. They are used internally to improve the appetite and strengthen the digestive system,they relieve symptoms such as abdominal bloating, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. They are also used to treat morning sickness. The leaves are also used in the treatment of chest congestion, diarrhoea and headaches.The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and requires well-drained soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.