About
A bushy, clump-forming deciduous perennial to around 80cm tall with erect, sparsely-branched stems clothed in ovate to oblong aromatic leaves 3-7cm long. Long, narrow spikes of tiered clusters of lavender-blue flowers are borne from midsummer into early autumn. This plant is attractive 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 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, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden, 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 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