About
A bushy perennial 30-35cm high and 45-50cm across with softly hairy, aromatic, grey-green leaves, producing spires of indigo blue flowers on dark stems from May to September.
About the genus
Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact and to encourage a second flowering
PropagationDivide in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers