Major flower shows have been awash with catmint this year, its mass of purple flowers on low soft spikes ideal for the front of a colourful border, making a welcome change from lavender although it's smell isn't as pleasant.
Catmint, a long-flowering perennial which grows to around 2ft (60cm), tends to be vigorous and easy to grow in well drained soil in sun or light shade. You can divide clumps of it in spring or autumn.
It flowers from early summer to early autumn, but should be trimmed hard after the first flush of flowers to keep the plants tidy and encourage more flowers. Nepeta also attracts bees, moths and butterflies. Good varieties include N. x faassenii and the larger Six Hills Giant' which grows 90cm (3ft) high and is a good choice in cold, damp areas.
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