About
This compact, upright deciduous perennial with aromatic green leaves, serrated at the edges, and clusters of blue-purple flowers which appear in the spring and can flower through until September if cut back to promote a second flush of blooms.
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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationPrefers moist but well-drained soil in partial shade
PruningDeadheading plants regularly will prolong flowering
PropagationDivide in spring or autumn or take softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers