Nepeta × faassenii 'Walker's Low'
This cultivar is a vigorous selection of hybrid catmint noted for a long bloom window and sturdy habit. Flower spikes show lavender blue color over gray green foliage. It performs best in full sun with average, well drained soils. It keeps flowering from late spring to fall if sheared after the first flush. Plants tolerate drought after establishment and resist deer and rabbits. This cultivar was introduced to the trade in 1988 in the United Kingdom. It is widely grown across North America in zones 3 to 8.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: hybrid catmint cultivar
- Height × spread: 24 to 30 in × 30 to 36 in (60 to 75 cm × 75 to 90 cm)
- Bloom window: April to September
- Color & flower form: lavender blue spikes with small tubular flowers
- Fragrance: 2 noticeable
- USDA hardiness: zones 3 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Four Seasons Nursery, 1988, United Kingdom
- Awards/registration: Perennial Plant of the Year 2007; RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Pet safety: sources differ; see References
How it differs
- Taller than the name suggests and comparable in height to larger catmints.
- Blooms for months with light shearing after peak flush.
- Forms a dense mound that resists gaps when grown in full sun.
- Usually less enticing to cats than true catnip.
Strengths
- Long flowering season.
- Good drought tolerance once established.
- Strong garden performance noted in independent trials.
- Deer and rabbit resistant.
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun in most of North America; give afternoon shade in hot, humid areas.
- Use well drained soils; avoid soggy or overly rich conditions.
- Water to establish; then water deeply but infrequently.
- Do not overfertilize; excessive nitrogen can cause flopping.
- Shear spent stems after the first flush to extend bloom.
- Cut back to low mounds in late fall or early spring.
Watch‑outs
- Can relax or lean on rich soils or with too much shade.
- High heat and humidity may require light afternoon shade.
- Shearing is needed to maintain a neat dome and repeat bloom.
Best uses (tags)
borders; edging; pollinators; water-wise; massing; pathways
Provenance note
Selected in a private Irish garden known as Walker’s Low and introduced by Four Seasons Nursery in 1988.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’
- Perennial Plant Association – 2007 Plant of the Year
- RHS – Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’
- University of Wisconsin Extension – Nepeta × faassenii ‘Walker’s Low’
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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