About
A compact, bushy perennial, to around 35cm high, with ascending stems and aromatic, toothed green leaves. Spikes of small violet blue flowers are produced from late spring 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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationThrives in a sunny spot in cool, moist soil, but will tolerate any well-drained soil and some light shade. Ideal for containers
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