Nepeta ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ (Catmint)

Perfect for small gardens, Nepeta ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ (Catmint) is a dwarf herbaceous perennial of neat and tidy ball-shaped habit. The foliage is topped from early summer into early fall with long, dark flower stems boasting showy spikes of indigo blue flowers with rosy purple calyces. Unlike other varieties of Catmint that only produce flowers at the top of the stems, ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ produces blooms from the ground to the tips of the stems for increased impact. As a bonus, the foliage of small, aromatic, gray-green leaves keeps deer and rabbits away. Catmint is a wonderful garden plant with low-maintenance, drought tolerance, and long-lasting blooms. Plant in large drifts along a walkway to create a garden space that overflows with color, and enjoy its mint scent when bruised. Terrific near the front of the border and for edging too!

• Typically grows up to 12-14 inches tall (30-35 cm) and 18-20 in. wide (45-50 cm).
• Performs best in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Provide light afternoon shade in warm summer areas.
• A remarkably low-maintenance plant, this excellent performer is highly versatile. It can be used in many situations: in the front of the perennial border, in gravel gardens, in cottage gardens, and in wildlife gardens. It is also great for edging beds or along paths. Nepeta is perfect for underplanting roses as the colors complement each other, and the foliage hides the bare feet of the rose bushes.
• Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds but is ignored by deer and rabbits.
• Extremely easy-growing plant with few pests or problems. Watch for leafhoppers or powdery mildew.
• May be cut back before the first flowering to promote a more compact size. Shear flower spikes after flowering to encourage a second flowering. Best propagated by division in spring or fall.