Nepeta Six Hills Giant (9cm pot)

This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn then fresh new growth appears again in spring. Position full sun Soil moist well-drained soil Rate of growth fast-growing Flowering period June to July Hardiness fully hardy A vigorous catmint with small tubular lavender-blue flowers held in clusters of upright stems from June to July and attractive aromatic light grey-green foliage. This tall perennial will form a dense mound that looks wonderful in the middle of a sunny border alongside other blue or silver-leaved plants.

Fresh or dried the leaves make a refreshing and therapeutic tea which is high in vitamin C and has traditionally been used to treat such conditions as nervousness insomnia hyperactivity colds and fevers. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and of course the foliage to cats who will go mad for it. To prevent them from completely flattening it insert several twiggy sticks into the centre of the plant Garden care Cut back after flowering has finished to keep the plant compact.

Lift and divide large clumps in spring replanting divided specimens with lots of well-rotted organic matter. If powdery mildew becomes a problem prune out the affected areas.