Catmint is not terribly fussy about soil; it tolerates dry conditions better than most perennials. The taller forms may need staking, though their informal habit is appreciated by some. If you are the tidy type, place brushwood staking (see page 115) by the plants before they fall over. Cutting back the plants after the main flush of flowers has passed will ensure a strong second flush later in summer.
Catmint is a delightful plant with tall, wispy spikes of lavender-blue flowers over grayish green foliage that releases a pungent aroma when brushed. Nepeta x faassenii (shown here) is the most commonly grown variety. Catmint is invaluable for blending with soft colors and providing a backdrop for strong ones. It is easy to grow in most conditions except the high heat and humidity of the Deep South.
This plant belongs in every perennial border, shrub border, and rose garden, where it will add color and interest long after its companions have stopped blooming. There are very few colors that it doesn’t look good planted alongside, but it is especially appealing near plants with pale yellow flowers.
ZONES: 3–8
BLOOM TIME: Summer
LIGHT: Full sun to light shade
HEIGHT: 18–24 Inches
INTEREST: Tall, long-lasting spikes of lavender-blue; pungent gray foliage