About
An early-flowering, low-growing, clump-forming deciduous herbaceous perennial with aromatic grey-green foliage and upright stems which produce lavender-blue flowers from late spring throughout the summer. An attractive plant to cats.
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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn or by division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers