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Description
Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is commonly known as catmint and is native to the Middle East and Central Asia. It is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with grey-green leaves that are triangular in shape and toothed at the edges. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall, producing spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Nepeta |
Appearance
Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low has a bushy and clump-forming habit, with a height and spread of up to 2 feet. The leaves are grey-green and measure 1-2 inches long, with a triangular shape and toothed edges. The flowers are produced on spikes that measure 4-6 inches long, with a lavender-blue color and a tubular shape. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall and is highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be over-watered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If necessary, apply an insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is native to the Middle East and Central Asia, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soils. The plant is well-suited to rock gardens, borders, and containers. It is also highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I prune Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low?
A: Prune Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low back by half in early summer to promote bushier growth and prolong the blooming period.
Q: Can Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How tall does Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low grow?
A: Nepeta Racemosa Walker’s Low grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Nepeta x faassenii
- Nepeta cataria
- Nepeta grandiflora
References
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Catmint (Nepeta spp.). Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/flowers/catmint-nepeta-spp
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Nepeta racemosa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k590
- North Carolina State University Extension. (n.d.). Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nepeta-racemosa-walkers-low/
