Nepeta x ‘Cat’s Pajamas’, commonly known as Catmint, is a compact, mounding perennial prized for its early, extended bloom time and fragrant blue-purple flowers. Flowering begins at the base of the plant and continues upward, creating a full display from late spring through summer. Growing just 12 to 14 inches tall and up to 20 inches wide, Cat’s Pajamas is ideal for sunny borders, rock gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings.

Its aromatic gray-green foliage is deer and rabbit resistant, and the blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. While it’s a beautiful and versatile ornamental, Nepeta x ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ is not a native species, and native perennials provide stronger ecological benefits to pollinators and wildlife.

Why Choose Nepeta x ‘Cat’s Pajamas’?

• Compact, low-growing habit ideal for borders and small spaces

• Long bloom season with vibrant blue-purple flowers

• Drought-tolerant, deer resistant, and pollinator-friendly

Cultivating Tips

• Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils

• Drought-tolerant once established

• Shear lightly after flowering to encourage a second flush of blooms

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Perfect for edging garden paths, borders, and rock gardens

• Combine with native perennials for added biodiversity

• Excellent addition to low-maintenance and pollinator gardens

Ecological Benefits

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

• Non-native species offering limited habitat and food value

• Native alternatives provide better ecological support and wildlife benefits

Since Nepeta x ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s that provide ecological benefits:

• Monarda fistulosa – Wild Bergamot: Lavender-pink blooms attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees

• Pycnanthemum tenuifolium – Narrowleaf Mountain Mint: Aromatic foliage and delicate white blooms support a wide range of pollinators

• Echinacea purpurea – Purple Coneflower: Large, showy flowers support pollinators and produce seed for birds in fall