About

A bushy perennial to 70cm tall with aromatic, ovate to triangular green leaves. Long spikes ofpale pink flowers with dark pink calyces are produced from summer into 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, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

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, Patio and container plants, 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 softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn or by division
Pest resistanceMay be damaged by slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers