What's eating my anise hyssop?

Anise hyssop is largely pest-resistant, but aphids and Japanese beetles can target it in summer. Four-lined plant bugs leave distinctive round, sunken spots on leaves. Deer and rabbits typically avoid it due to the anise scent. Remove pests by hand or spray with insecticidal soap; good airflow prevents most problems.

Clusters of soft insects on new growth cause leaf curl, sticky honeydew, and stunted shoot tips. Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage ladybugs and lacewings.

Small, round, sunken tan or brown spots across leaves that look like disease but are feeding punctures. Hand-pick nymphs early in the season; insecticidal soap on young nymphs. Adults are fast and hard to catch.

Skeletonized leaves with only veins remaining, most common in midsummer. Hand-pick adults into soapy water in early morning; use row covers during peak season. Avoid Japanese beetle traps near the plant.