Wasatch Wildflowers: Nettle-leaf Horsemint (Agastache urticifolia)

Photo: Nettle-leaf Horsemint (Agastache urticifolia) – photo: Ashley Brown

WASATCH MOUNTAINS, Utah — Nettle-leaf Horsemint, also known as Horse Nettle, is a perennial herb native to Utah. The long, ovate, and toothed leaves may look similar to stinging nettle; however, the plant causes no harm when touched. In fact, it has a history of medical use to treat stomach pains, measles, and rheumatism.

Dense flower clusters of lavender, deep purple, rose, or luminescent white grow into a spike up to 6-inches long. The eye-catching plants grow in thick patches, each specimen between two and six feet tall. Look for blossoms June through August, 5,400 to 11,000 feet.

Nettle-leaf horsemint favors moist soil and often grows under quaking aspen canopies.