Nepeta nervosa - Catnip

Nepeta nervosa is a remarkable deciduous herbaceous perennial, forming a beautiful clump, with long very ridged, green, slightly aromatic leaves, crowned with upright stems with long spikes of magnificent purple-blue flowers from summer to autumn.

Nepeta, also known as Catnip or Catmint, is part of the Lamiaceae family. Nepeta nervosa is native to the Kashmir province in India. This spectacular, vigorous species, is bushy and rounded, about 50 to 70 cm (20 to 28in) high and 30 cm (12in) wide. This veined Catmint grows rapidly and has non-branched upright stems, and aromatic deciduous foliage, composed of velvety, medium green leaves, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, with very prominent veins. From July to October, it has dense spikes 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8in) long, with splendid purple-blue flowers. Very floriferous and attractive to pollinating insects, Nepetas are also attractive to cats, who like the scent of the foliage and like to rub against it.

Nepetas are very easy and trouble-free perennials, robust and fast-growing, essential in the garden, for their beautiful bushy shape, aromatic foliage, and relentless summer flowering. Nepeta nervosa has a very long flowering period and is a highly ornamental plant for the garden, whether planted in a rockery, on a slope, at the edge of a perennial bed, or even in a scree garden. It is well-suited for growing in pots on a terrace or balcony.

This hardy species likes sunny locations and well-drained soil. Its long flowering stems make an excellent cut flower for creating beautiful country bouquets. The purple-blue flowers will beautifully complement and contrast with the yellow or orange flowers of summer perennials. It will pair with Daylilies, Paniculate Phlox, Purple Coneflowers, Oriental Poppies, Japanese Anemones, Astrantias, and Knautias and have a stunning effect at the base of shrub and climbing roses, where it will cover the base.