Catmint

Nepeta subsessilis Washfield

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to August
• Hardiness: fully hardy

  
  Spikes of vivid blue, tubular flowers are held in clusters on erect stems above aromatic, dark green leaves. This pretty, clump-forming catmint brings vibrant colour to the garden for weeks from midsummer through to early autumn, and looks particularly good with blue or silver-leaved plants, or in a herb garden. This variety will thrive in heavier soils than most catmint. The flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies.
  

• Garden care: Cut back after flowering has finished to keep the plant compact. Lift and divide large clumps in spring, replanting divided specimens with lots of well-rotted organic matter. If powdery mildew becomes a problem prune out the affected areas.