perennial RHS Award

Walker's Low Catmint

Nepeta racemosa 'Walker'

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact, aromatic perennial that produces spikes of blue flowers.

Known for its long blooming period and ability to tolerate drought conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesNepeta racemosa Walker offers aromatic foliage and vibrant purple flowers, perfect for borders and attracting pollinators.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it ideal for low-maintenance gardens and xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsDraws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesNepeta racemosaCatmint

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds lightly into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting over 6 weeks.
  3. Gradually introduce plants to full sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging, especially during dry periods.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
  6. Prune after flowering to promote bushy growth and remove dead stems.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant, healthy Nepeta racemosa Walker.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
  • Ensure good air circulation around plants
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce flowering
  • Don’t plant in dense shade
  • Never leave cuttings in standing water

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderAromatic herb gardenDrought-tolerant landscape

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Walker's Low Catmint questions

What zones can Walker's Low Catmint grow in?

Walker's Low Catmint is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Walker's Low Catmint deer resistant?

Yes — Walker's Low Catmint is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Walker's Low Catmint bloom?

Walker's Low Catmint typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Walker's Low Catmint need full sun?

Walker's Low Catmint does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Walker's Low Catmint drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Walker's Low Catmint handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Walker's Low Catmint with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.