Horehound

Horehound is a distinctive perennial herb, forming a bushy plant with crinkled, grey-green, woolly leaves that give it a unique appearance in the UK garden. Reaching about 45-60cm, it produces whorls of small, white flowers along its square stems in summer. Fully hardy (H7), it thrives in full sun and very well-drained, even poor, soil, making it suitable for dry or challenging spots. Traditionally used in cough sweets and herbal remedies, its bitter flavour is quite potent. It's also an attractive plant for wildlife gardens, especially for bees and other pollinators. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained to poor.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.