Anise Hyssop vs True Hyssop: What's the Difference?
What is true Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)?
True hyssop, botanically known as Hyssopus officinalis, is a small, bushy perennial herb native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, belonging to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It's recognisable by its narrow green leaves and spikes of small blue-purple flowers, and has been cultivated for centuries in European herb gardens for both culinary and traditional herbal use. This is the species used in purelyBlack's organic hyssop tea.
What is Anise Hyssop?
Despite sharing the common name, anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is a different genus entirely from true hyssop, though both belong to the wider mint family. Native to North America rather than Europe, anise hyssop is named for its distinctive anise or liquorice-like aroma, quite different from true hyssop's more minty, camphoraceous character. It's popular in gardens for its tall purple flower spikes and is a favourite among pollinators.
What is Giant Hyssop?
Giant hyssop is another common name within the Agastache genus, closely related to anise hyssop and sharing similar tall, flowering growth habits. Like anise hyssop, it's native to North America and is distinct from the European Hyssopus officinalis used in traditional Western herbal tea preparations.
Can you grow Hyssop in Australia?
Yes, true hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) grows well in most temperate Australian climates, preferring full sun and well-drained soil. It's a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial once established, commonly grown in herb gardens for its aromatic foliage and attractive flower spikes, which are also valued for attracting bees and other pollinators.
What does Hyssop taste like?
True hyssop has a distinctive minty, slightly bitter, and floral flavour, with a camphoraceous quality that sets it apart from more common mint family herbs. Anise hyssop, by contrast, carries a sweeter, anise-like flavour closer to liquorice or fennel. This flavour difference is one of the clearest ways to distinguish between the two when cooking or brewing.
From plant to tea — how is Hyssop processed?
True hyssop leaves are harvested and dried to preserve their volatile aromatic oils, then prepared as whole or cut loose leaf for tea. This careful drying process is what retains the characteristic minty, herbaceous aroma that defines a quality hyssop tea, distinct from lower-grade, dust-filled commercial alternatives.
Sourcing the leaf properly
purelyBlack's organic hyssop tea is made exclusively from true Hyssopus officinalis leaf, sourced from Poland — certified organic, with no fillers or additives. For a closer look at how to brew and use it, read our guide on Organic Hyssop Tea: Benefits, Side Effects & Daily Use.
About the Author: Researched & Written by H.R. Kim
Founder at purelyBlack — an Australian-owned botanical perfumery and essential oil supplier based in Sydney. Blending a deep knowledge of molecular ingredient chemistry with holistic aromatherapy, H.R. specialises in creating harmonious, safe, and effective botanical blends for natural home fragrance, cosmetic balancing, and daily wellness.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this masterclass is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. purelyBlack's botanical products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before incorporating new botanical powders, teas, or roots into your daily routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or have an underlying medical condition.
