Nepeta Blue Prelude, commonly known as Blue Catmint, is a compact and elegant perennial that brings striking bluish purple flowers and aromatic gray green foliage to the garden.
Height & Spread: 1 - 2 ft x 1 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference: Well drained, average soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High; the aromatic foliage deters deer
NATIVE STATUS
Hybrid cultivar not a native plant; however, its parent species Nepeta faassenii originates from the Mediterranean region.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Highly attractive plant for bees, providing abundant nectar throughout its blooming period, which supports local pollinator populations.
Butterflies
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The plant draws butterflies, particularly species that feed on nectar from aromatic flowers, adding additional pollinator value to your garden.
Other Beneficial Insects
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Supports a variety of beneficial insects, including ladybugs and predatory insects that naturally manage pests in the garden.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- To allow for proper air circulation and growth, plant 1 - 2 ft apart. This ensures that it can spread naturally without crowding other plants.
Landscape Placement
- Works wonderfully as a border plant, in mixed perennial beds, or even in containers. Its compact size and long-lasting blooms make it perfect for filling gaps in garden beds or edging pathways.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Both plants attract pollinators and thrive in similar conditions, creating a harmonious and vibrant garden display.
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Salvia nemorosa (Wood Sage) - Their upright growth and complementary flower colors, combined with similar care needs, make them perfect companions for Nepeta Blue Prelude.
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Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - The lavender's fragrance and color blend beautifully with Nepeta’s blue tones, and both are drought-tolerant once established.
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Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Both Nepeta and Coreopsis are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and attract butterflies, making them excellent partners in pollinator-friendly gardens.
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Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) - The low-growing thyme complements Nepeta’s upright habit, providing ground cover while sharing similar growing conditions, especially in herb gardens or rock gardens.