Nepeta 'Neptune' is a compact catmint prized for its upright form, dense flower clusters, and tidy growth habit. Its periwinkle blue blooms and aromatic gray green foliage make it a favorite for borders, pollinator gardens, and container edges.
Height & Spread: 12 - 14 in x 16 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring through early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Not native to North America. This hybrid cultivar is derived from Nepeta species originally native to Europe and Asia and is widely used in ornamental plantings for its resilience and pollinator appeal.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and Eastern Tailed Blues are attracted to its long blooming flowers rich in nectar.
Bees
- Highly favored by native bumblebees, honeybees, and small sweat bees for consistent foraging from late spring through fall.
Beneficial Insects
- Encourages lacewings and hoverflies which help control aphids and other garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 16 - 18 in apart to form a compact, flower filled mat without overcrowding neighboring plants.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for front borders, edging along sunny paths, or massing in low maintenance pollinator gardens.
Companion Plants
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Woodland Sage) - Spiky purple flowers pair beautifully with the soft tones and compact habit of 'Neptune'.
- Achillea millefolium 'Moonshine' (Yarrow) - Yellow blooms and feathery foliage complement the cool blues and silvers of catmint.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Bright gold flowers create vibrant contrast and bloom on a similar schedule.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (English Lavender) - Aromatic foliage and deep violet flowers provide texture and fragrance contrast.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Adds vertical interest and late season color while supporting a wide array of pollinators.