About
A perennial to around 50cm tall forming a mound of grey-green, bluntly-toothed, aromatic foliage. Relatively large, deep purple-blueflowers are borne in tiered whorls on long stems from late spring into summer.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact and to encourage a second flowering
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slug damage on young growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in a dry summer