Nepeta subsessilis Blue Prelude ('Balneplud'PBR)

RHS Plant Profile
catmint [Blue Prelude]

Synonyms

Nepeta 'Balneplud'PBR

Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A bushy perennial, to around 90cm high, with ascending stems and aromatic, slightly glossy toothed green leaves. Loose spikes of violet blue flowers are produced from late spring throughout the summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun. May need support, see staking perennials

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or autumn, or by softwood cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Trim after flowering to keep plants compact and to encourage a second flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers