About
A clump-forming perennial, up to around 70cm high, with upright stems and aromatic narrow, woolly grey-green leaves. Dense spikes of violet blue flowers are produced throughout the 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toS Europe
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationThrives in a warm, sunny spot in gritty, well-drained soil. May need winter protection
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 and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers