About
This spreading perennial with aromatic grey-green foliage. Upright spikes of purple-blue flowers are produced from throughout the summer. Cats are attracted to this plant. A blue-flowered selection.
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 hardinessH6
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 usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun
PruningTrim after flowering to keep the plant bushy and compact
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or propagate by 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