Nepeta 'WALKER'S LOW'

Catmint is a large genus of about 250 species found in most temperate and cold regions of North hemisphere. Apart from a very few annuals it is a perennial with aromatic foliage and mostly violet flowers, seldom white, and uniquely yellow. Commonly cultivated species are n.nervosa, n.sibirica, n. x faassenii, and further hybrids. Not all species produce leaves whose scent is attractive to cats.

Walker’s Low is an English variety of catmint producing lavender blue-violet flowers atop 50-60 cm long, slender, arching stems in full bloom. Mint-scented leaves (and possibly the whole plant) look very similar to perovskia, they are small, ovate, scalloped, and gently serrated at margins. Thanks to extremely long flowering period it makes a great feature in summer gardens, on patios and balconies, and combined with spring flowering shrubs or perennials. If the plant gets leggy or unsightly in midsummer cut it by half and it will emerge with new, shorter but stronger stems that will produce flowers until early autumn.

Catmint is not too picky about soil type, however, it is not as drought tolerant as some landscape designers think. Especially tall growing species should never dry out completely on hottest days of summer. And on the contrary over-fertilized and over-watered plants may become leggy. Use common garden soil that will drain freely and irrigate the plant only when needed. Catmint is suitable for full sun and part shade. Very hardy to about -37 °C (USDA zone 3), and suitable for outdoor pots with excellent drainage.

Last update: 16-04-2023