About
A perennial to around 90cm tall with toothed, aromatic, oval leaves and spikes of deep blue flowers with dark purple calyces arranged in dense, whorled clusters in summer and early autumn.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in autumn, divide in spring or autumn, or take softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be damaged by slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers