Catwalk Queen Catmint

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

1-2 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Catwalk Queen Catmint (Nepeta) is a standout perennial known for its oversized lavender-blue blooms that consistently outperform standard varieties. Each flowering stem carries elongated panicles, packed with flowers nearly twice the size of typical catmint, offering unmatched visual impact from early summer into fall. The thick, upright stems and compact mounding habit make it a reliable border or container choice. In our trial gardens, 'Catwalk Queen' has been one of the longest blooming catmints, with a clean habit and excellent garden presence even in the height of summer. 

The aromatic foliage releases its characteristic catmint aroma when brushed or crushed and has a thick, leathery texture that resists browsing by deer and rabbits. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It grows naturally in a neat, low mound, approximately 10 to 12 inches high and 18 to 20 inches wide. Once established, Catwalk Queen is tolerant of drought and heat, thriving with little supplemental care. 

Native to dry regions of Europe and Asia, Nepeta hybrids like ‘Catwalk Queen’ are particularly well adapted to modern, water-wise gardens. Its compact form is suitable for edging paths, surrounding taller perennials, or massing in larger plantings. It pairs easily with a wide range of full sun perennials in cottage, prairie, and rock garden settings.

Catwalk Queen Catmint Care

Plant Catwalk Queen in full sun full sun with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for dense growth and abundant flowering. It performs well in a range of soils, from lean, rocky substrates to average garden loam, as long as drainage is good. Overly rich soil can lead to weaker stems and excess foliage. Ideal soil pH is neutral to alkaline (pH 7.0+).

Water newly planted Catwalk Queen Catmint regularly until roots begin expanding into the surrounding soil, allowing the upper soil layer to dry between waterings. Established plants have low water needs and tolerate dry periods well, particularly when grown in open, well-drained ground. Fertilizer is rarely necessary in average soil, but a light application of slow-release perennial fertilizer in early spring can help plants growing in very poor ground. 

Shear the plant back by roughly one-half after the first major bloom flush to remove aging flower stems and encourage another round of lavender-blue flowers. Spent panicles can also be clipped individually when a more selective approach is preferred. For winter, leave the top growth in place to protect the crown, and cut remaining stems close to the crown in early spring. Fresh flower stems may be harvested during summer for small arrangements or dried displays. 

Catwalk Queen Catmint Spacing

Space Catwalk Queen Catmint 18 to 20 inches apart so each mound can reach its mature width while forming a full border or mass planting. For edging or groundcover use, stagger in a triangular layout for better coverage. For one plant in a container, choose a pot at least 12 to 14 inches wide with drainage holes and a coarse, freely draining potting mix; water only after the upper portion of the mix begins to dry. 

Catwalk Queen Catmint Companion Plants

For companion planting, pair with drought-tolerant, sun-loving varieties like tickseed, Shasta daisies, or artemisia for a contrast in color and texture. Lavender and dianthus are well-matched landscape companions because like Catwalk Queen, they favor strong sun, good drainage, and comparatively lean soil. Creeping thyme pairs well with Catwalk Queen Catmint in a sunny container, staying low while sharing similar light and watering needs.

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