About
A compact, clump-forming deciduous perennial with aromatic silver grey-green leaves and upright stems of violet-blue flowers which appear from summer through until the 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, 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, 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, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens, Mediterranean climate plants
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 or by softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs on new growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible powdery mildews in a dry summer