Nepeta ‘Blue Dragon’ is a popular perennial valued for its robust nature. This catmint cultivar stands out with intensely violet-blue flowers that bloom abundantly from summer into early autumn. Its aromatic foliage and upright, clumping habit add to its garden appeal. ‘Blue Dragon’ is a favored choice among gardeners due to its long blooming season and easy-care requirements, making it suitable for various landscapes.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Nepeta ‘Blue Dragon’ thrives in ample sunlight. It performs best in full sun (at least six hours daily), which promotes prolific flowering. Partial shade is tolerated, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade reduces bloom production.
The plant adapts to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay, provided they have good drainage. Well-draining soil is important to prevent root issues. ‘Blue Dragon’ prefers a soil pH that is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, performing well in neutral conditions.
This catmint is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9, indicating its winter hardiness. When planting, allow 24 to 30 inches between plants for their mature spread of 2.5 to 3 feet. Incorporate organic matter to improve drainage and fertility, then water thoroughly after planting for establishment.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, ‘Blue Dragon’ is drought tolerant, reducing frequent watering needs. Young plants need regular watering for strong root development. During extended dry periods, mature plants may need supplemental watering to maintain vigor and blooms.
Fertilization is generally not required, as it performs well in average garden soils. If soil quality is poor, a light application of balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in spring can boost growth. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning is a beneficial practice for Nepeta ‘Blue Dragon’ to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Deadheading spent flowers throughout summer prompts new blooms. A cutback of one-third to one-half its height after the first major flush of flowers (mid-summer) encourages a bushier habit and a stronger second bloom. Alternatively, a harder cutback in late autumn or early spring rejuvenates the plant and prevents legginess.
‘Blue Dragon’ is generally resistant to most common pests and diseases. Its aromatic foliage deters deer and rabbits, making it a reliable choice where these animals are a concern. Watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions or crown rot in overly moist soils, which proper air circulation and drainage can mitigate.
Benefits and Landscape Uses
‘Blue Dragon’ attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its abundant violet-blue flowers. This supports local ecosystems and enhances garden biodiversity. Its aromatic foliage naturally deters common garden browsing animals, a significant advantage in landscapes prone to deer or rabbit damage.
Its notable drought tolerance once established makes it a good candidate for water-wise gardening or xeriscaping, reducing water consumption. Its low-maintenance nature, requiring minimal intervention beyond occasional pruning, appeals to gardeners seeking attractive, easy-care plants.
In the landscape, ‘Blue Dragon’ offers versatility due to its upright, clumping form and long bloom period. It works well in perennial borders, providing continuous color from summer into fall. It can also be used in mass plantings for visual impact, as an edging plant along pathways, or in cottage gardens. Its neat habit also suits larger containers.