for 2006
Nepeta faassenii ‘Kit Cat’
Kit Cat Catmint
Type: perennial
Height: 15-18”
Hardiness: Zone 4-7
Light requirements: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Color: blue/purple shades
(Faassenii Group) A unique
new dwarf form of nepeta that is smaller in scale
in every aspect: shorter habit, smaller leaves, and smaller flowers (but
more numerous). The small, grey-green leaves form a wide, dense clump that
can be used as a ground cover in sunny, dry areas or rock gardens. From
early through late summer, small terminal clusters of nearly true blue
flowers are produced.
When Nepeta's stems are
broken, they release an aroma into the air that tends to attract cats, thus
its common name, Catmint.
Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips:
Nepetas are easy to grow perennials that provide
a beautiful show of color all summer long. They prefer to be planted in
full sun and ordinary, well-drained soil. Shearing the plant back in the
springtime will promote more compact growth. In addition, cutting plants
back by half after their first bloom tends to stimulate a second bloom
cycle.
-from Walters Gardens
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