Plant Profile: Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low'

Walker’s Low Catmint is a herbaceous perennial belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Although this cultivar is a hybrid with sterile seeds, its roots trace back to the Middle East, particularly northern Iran and the Caucasus region. This plant thrives in dry conditions and demonstrates impressive drought resistance. It is a result of a cross between Nepeta racemosa and Nepeta nepetella, first cultivated by Faassen Nurseries in the Netherlands, and named after a garden known as Walkers Low.

This variety flourishes in full sunlight and prefers dry, even rocky soil. In southern climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade and can be sensitive to humidity. Under optimal conditions, it can reach heights of up to two feet and spread between 18 to 36 inches. Due to its sterile seeds, there is minimal risk of it overtaking garden spaces, unlike many other mint family plants, though it can be divided in spring. Pruning after flowering can encourage a second wave of lovely lavender-blue blooms, ensuring vibrant color from spring through fall.

With its striking flowers, aromatic silvery leaves that release fragrance when crushed, and resistance to deer, this plant has garnered attention, earning the title of 2007 Perennial Plant of the Year from the Perennial Plant Association. It is suitable for herb gardens, rock gardens, or cottage-style landscapes. Interestingly, cats show less interest in this plant compared to catnip.

For more details on Nepeta x faassenii, please refer to additional resources.