written by gardenlady
When many of us hear Nepeta, we generally think of catnip, a favorite of our feline friends. However, this gardening season, a cousin to the old favorite makes it's way into the spotlight. The Perennial Plant Association has selected Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' as the 2007 Perennial Plant of the Year.
Photo of Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' submitted by: yellow22
This stellar member of the Nepeta family is at last gaining the recognition it deserves. 'Walker's Low' is a powerhouse in the garden, blooming up to 6 weeks! By shearing it back two-thirds of it's height in July, you will enjoy a second flush of growth and flowering lasting into September.
Although the name 'Walker's Low' may lead you to believe it is a dwarf, it does indeed grow 24"-36" tall and lends itself to an attractive border plant. As with other Nepeta, 'Walker's Low' is very drought tolerant and not especially appetizing to deer.
The grey-green foliage adds a muted beauty to the garden allowing itself to combine easily with other perennials. Its lavender blue flower spikes are not only fragrant, but attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
If this is your first season in gardening, Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' would be a great plant to begin with assuring you much delight with its ease in growing.