Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', commonly known as 'Blue Moon' catmint, is a delightful and compact perennial prized for its vibrant blue flowers and aromatic foliage. This Nepeta cultivar forms a neat, bushy mound of grey-green, toothed leaves and produces upright spikes of densely packed, deep blue flowers from late spring to summer. Its compact size and long blooming period make it a valuable addition to gardens, borders, and containers, adding a touch of vibrant colour and fragrance to various settings. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family.
Origin: Nepeta nervosa is native to the Himalayan region. 'Blue Moon' is a cultivar selected for its intense flower colour and compact growth.
Light: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal flowering.
Water: Water regularly, especially during dry periods and the first year after planting. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Soil: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but thrives in sandy or loamy soil. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can retain too much moisture.
Fertilising: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' is not a heavy feeder. Fertilise sparingly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning: Cut back the plant after the first flush of blooms to encourage repeat flowering and maintain a tidy appearance. In autumn, cut back the plant to tidy it up.
Pests and Diseases: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' is generally pest and disease resistant, but keep an eye out for aphids and powdery mildew.
Uses: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and aromatic foliage. It's a popular choice for gardens, borders, rockeries, and containers. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Toxicity: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children who might try to eat them.