Nepeta faassenii ‘Purrsian Blue’ (Catmint)

Noted for its neat and tidy habit, Nepeta faassenii ‘Purrsian Blue’ (Catmint) is a compact herbaceous perennial forming a dense, rounded clump of small, aromatic, gray-green leaves all season long. From early summer into early fall, the foliage is topped with well-branched stems boasting showy spikes of periwinkle blue flowers with purple calyces. Very floriferous, low maintenance, drought tolerant, deer resistant, and long-lasting season of interest, Catmint is a wonderful garden plant. Plant in large drifts along a walkway to create a garden space that overflows with color, and enjoy its mint scent when bruised.

• Typically grows in spreading clumps, up to 14-18 inches tall (35-45 cm) and 18-30 in. wide (45-75 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.