Nepeta racemosa 'Walker's Low' (Catmint)
Catmint 'Walker's Low', Persian Catmint 'Walker's Low', Nepeta × faassenii 'Walker's Low'Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low,’ commonly known as Walker’s Low Catmint, is a popular herbaceous perennial celebrated for its long-lasting lavender-blue blooms and aromatic gray-green foliage. Despite its name, this plant is not particularly low-growing, reaching a height of 24–30 inches and spreading up to 36 inches. Its arching stems and billowy flowers create a soft, cascading effect, making it a favorite for borders, rock gardens, and naturalized plantings. The flowers, which appear in late spring and continue through early fall, attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, adding ecological value to any garden.
This award-winning perennial is highly versatile and thrives in a variety of conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established and performs well in full sun to partial shade. Its low-maintenance nature and resistance to deer and rabbits make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a reliable and attractive plant. Walker’s Low Catmint is also known for its ability to tolerate poor soils, including sandy or rocky conditions, making it suitable for challenging landscapes.
Care Instructions for Walker’s Low Catmint
- Light: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil and adapts to sandy, loamy, or rocky conditions. Avoid waterlogged soils.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once mature, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
- Pruning: Shear back spent flower spikes after the first bloom to encourage reblooming. Cut back the plant in late fall or early spring to maintain its shape.
- Fertilizing: Apply a light layer of compost in early spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it may reduce flowering.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’ is a standout choice for gardeners seeking a hardy, low-maintenance plant with extended bloom time and aromatic foliage. Its cascading form and vibrant flowers make it a versatile addition to borders, pathways, and mixed perennial beds. Whether used as a ground cover or a pollinator-friendly feature, this catmint adds charm and resilience to any landscape.
