Nepeta 'Snowflake' is a compact mounding catmint with delicate white flowers that bloom profusely over aromatic gray green foliage. Holds a tidy form making it ideal for edging paths or softening the front of sunny garden beds. Its foliage remains attractive even after flowering and shearing spent blooms can encourage a fresh flush of blossoms into late summer.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to mid summer, with possible rebloom
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soil
Watering Needs: Low once established
Deer Resistance: Strongly deer and rabbit resistant due to aromatic oils
Native Status
'Snowflake' is a cultivated variety derived from Nepeta species native to Europe and Asia. While not native to North America, it performs reliably in North American gardens and supports local pollinator activity.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts a wide range of pollinators including honeybees, bumblebees, and leafcutter bees that frequent the nectar rich white blooms.
Butterflies
- Popular with smaller butterflies such as Pearl Crescents and Spring Azures that seek out low growing nectar plants.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and tachinid flies that feed on aphids and other soft bodied pests, aiding in organic pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart for mass plantings or interspersed edging to prevent overcrowding and allow airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent along pathways, at the front of perennial borders, or tucked into rock gardens for a clean, flowering groundcover effect.
Companion Plants
- Achillea millefolium 'Little Moonshine' - Bright yellow umbels pop against the crisp white catmint blooms and share similar dry soil preferences.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Nana Alba' - White lavender flowers harmonize with 'Snowflake' while adding fragrance and structure.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Pale yellow daisy like flowers mix easily with the white blooms for a delicate summer display.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Snow Hill' - Cool toned white flower spikes echo the color palette and support pollinator traffic.
- Thymus serpyllum 'Albus' - Low growing white thyme provides aromatic foliage and dense texture beneath the taller Nepeta clumps.