Nepeta subsessilis Blue Panther - Catnip

Nepeta subsessilis Blue Panther is a bushy, upright and branched catmint, with broad light green, aromatic leaves forming a compact dome. This perennial blooms throughout simmer from the first year of planting with large spikes of wide pastel blue, fragrant flowers. Nepeta subsessilis prefers moisture and heavy soils. It is used in the same way as lavender, for edging, in borders and pots, in sunny locations.

Nepeta subsessilis belongs to the mint family. This perennial species is native to the moist mountain slopes of Asia. "Blue Panther" is a horticultural selection which rapidly spreads to form a dense and bushy clump 40 cm (16in) tall, with a spread of about 50 cm (20in). From June until September, it has pastel blue flowers, 3 cm (1in) long in dense spikes which are attractive to bees and butterflies. The medium green leaves are very aromatic when crushed. They are ovate, toothed and smooth, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long. It is one of the species most capable of withstanding high atmospheric humidity. Also known as catmint because its leaves are attractive to cats.

Nepeta subsessilis Blue Panther is easy to grow in moist, rich soil in a sunny position. It tolerates drier, poor, and rocky soils, but will flower less abundantly. It is not as drought-resistant as most Nepetas, but it tolerates heavy soils much better. Nepeta subsessilis can be used as an edging plant, in slopes or in pots. Pair it with roses in a romantic setting or with yellow or orange flowering perennials for example 'Terracotta' yarrow, Coreopsis or rudbeckias. for more contrast. It also pairs well with Lobelias and Turtleheads. Its pastel blue flowering will be enhanced by intense blues like that of Salvia guaranitica.