About
This bushy, compact perennial 20-50cm tall with grey-green, serrate-edged, aromatic leaves. Whorls of pale bluish-pink flowers with purple-spotted lower lips are borne on upright spikes in summer and 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, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-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 usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningDeadheading plants regularly will prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in autumn, divide in spring or autumn, or take softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn
Pest resistanceSlugs and snails may damage young growth
Disease resistancePowdery mildews may be a problem in dry summers