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Herbaceous Perennial

Nepeta cyanea dark form
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

dark-flowered catmint

A perennial to around 90cm tall with toothed, aromatic, oval leaves and spikes of deep blue flowers with dark purple calyces arranged in dense, whorled clusters in summer and early autumn

Synonyms
Nepeta kubanica dark form
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 Blue Purple 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 GB / Ireland
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

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
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
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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