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Herbaceous Perennial

Nepeta cyanea
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

blue-flowered catmint

A clump-forming perennial to about 80cm with aromatic leaves and spikes of purple-blue flowers with dark purple calycesin early to mid-summer

Synonyms
Nepeta kubanica
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Blue Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Caucasus

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in autumn, divide in spring or autumn, or take softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

Trim after flowering to keep plants compact

Pests

May be damaged by slugs and snails

Diseases

May be affected by powdery mildews in dry summers

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