About

This compact, bushy perennial to 50cm tall forming a mound of glossy green, aromatic foliage. Well-branched stems bear dense spikes of tubular, clear pink flowers from summer into early 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 moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage

Care notes

CultivationPrefers moist but well-drained soil in partial shade
PruningTrim after flowering to keep plants compact
PropagationDivide in spring or autumn or take softwood cuttings in early summer. Propagate by seed in containers in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be damaged by slugs and Snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers