Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint Plant Reviews

The Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint delivers stunning blue-purple blooms from late spring through fall with minimal maintenance. This compact, drought-tolerant perennial attracts pollinators while resisting deer and rabbits, making it a favorite for borders, containers, and cottage gardens.

If you have been searching for a perennial that practically takes care of itself while putting on a months-long flower show, you have probably come across the Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint plant reviews online. Gardeners everywhere are talking about this compact powerhouse, and for good reason. This little plant packs a serious punch when it comes to color, fragrance, and wildlife appeal.

I remember the first time I planted catmint in my own garden. I was skeptical. Could a plant really bloom for months without constant deadheading? Would it really survive the brutal summer heat in my zone 6 garden? The answer turned out to be a resounding yes. The Purrsian Blue variety takes everything gardeners love about traditional catmint and packages it in a tidy, well-behaved mound that fits into almost any garden design.

Key Takeaways

• Long bloom season: Flowers from late spring to first frost with deadheading
• Compact growth habit: Reaches 14-18 inches tall and wide, perfect for small spaces
• Pollinator magnet: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love the nectar-rich blooms
• Deer and rabbit resistant: Aromatic foliage naturally deters browsing animals
• Drought tolerant once established: Thrives in hot, dry conditions after first season
• Low maintenance: Requires minimal fertilizer and only occasional pruning
• Versatile landscape use: Works in borders, rock gardens, containers, and mass plantings

Quick Answers to Common Questions

How long does Purrsian Blue Catmint bloom?

It blooms from late spring through fall, often 4-5 months with deadheading.

Is Purrsian Blue Catmint deer resistant?

Yes, the aromatic foliage naturally deters deer and rabbits.

How tall does Purrsian Blue Catmint get?

It reaches 14-18 inches tall and wide, staying compact and mounded.

Does catmint spread aggressively?

No, it forms a well-behaved clump and does not run by rhizomes.

Can I grow Purrsian Blue Catmint in a container?

Yes, it thrives in containers with well-draining soil and full sun.

What Makes Purrsian Blue Catmint Special

A Breeding Breakthrough

The Purrsian Blue Catmint is not just another nepeta. It represents years of careful breeding work to create a catmint that stays compact without flopping open in the center. Traditional catmint varieties like Walker’s Low can reach three feet tall and wide, often splaying outward by midsummer. Purrsian Blue stays at a polite 14 to 18 inches in both directions.

This compact habit comes from its parentage. It was developed as part of the “Purrsian” series, bred specifically for improved garden performance. The result is a plant that maintains its neat mounded shape from spring through fall without the need for staking or aggressive pruning.

Color That Pops

The flowers are a deep periwinkle blue with just a hint of purple. This shade reads as true blue in the garden, something that is surprisingly hard to find in perennial flowers. The blooms appear in dense whorls along the stems, creating a haze of color that catches the light beautifully.

Each individual flower is small and tubular, typical of the mint family. But they are packed so tightly together that the effect is a solid cloud of blue. When the sun hits them just right, they seem to glow. This makes them especially effective when planted where evening light will catch them.

Fragrant Foliage

Run your fingers through the leaves and you will understand why cats go crazy for this plant. The gray-green foliage releases a strong minty fragrance with hints of citrus when brushed. This aroma is not just pleasant for humans. It is the primary reason deer and rabbits leave this plant alone.

The leaves are small, oval, and softly textured with a slight fuzziness. They form a dense mound that looks attractive even when the plant is not in bloom. In mild winters, the foliage often stays semi-evergreen, providing winter interest in the garden.

Growing Conditions for Success

Sun Requirements

Full sun is non-negotiable for the best flower production. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Eight hours is even better. In hot southern climates, a little afternoon shade can help prevent stress, but too much shade leads to leggy growth and fewer flowers.

I learned this the hard way when I planted one in a spot that got only four hours of morning sun. It survived but never really thrived. The stems stretched toward the light, the foliage was sparse, and I got maybe a third of the blooms compared to the plants in full sun.

Soil Preferences

Good drainage is the single most important soil requirement. Purrsian Blue Catmint will rot in heavy clay that stays wet, especially over winter. Sandy or gravelly soil is ideal. If you have clay, amend it generously with compost and coarse sand or plant in a raised bed.

The plant tolerates a wide pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. It does not need rich soil. In fact, overly fertile soil encourages floppy growth and reduces flowering. Lean soil produces stronger stems and more blooms.

Water Needs

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, this plant is remarkably drought tolerant. The deep taproot seeks out moisture far below the surface. During extended dry spells, a deep soaking every two weeks is plenty.

Overwatering is a bigger risk than underwatering. Wet feet lead to root rot and fungal diseases. If you have an irrigation system, make sure this plant is on a zone with other drought-tolerant perennials, not with thirsty annuals or lawn.

Hardiness Range

Purrsian Blue Catmint is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8. This covers most of the continental United States. In zone 3, provide winter mulch after the ground freezes. In zone 8, afternoon shade helps the plant cope with intense summer heat.

The plant emerges early in spring, often before the last frost. The new growth can handle light freezes without damage. This early start contributes to the long bloom season.

Planting and Establishment

When to Plant

Spring and fall are both excellent planting times. Spring planting gives the roots all summer to establish before winter. Fall planting allows root growth in cool soil without the stress of summer heat. Avoid planting during the hottest part of summer unless you can provide consistent water.

If you order from Spring Hill Nurseries, your plant will likely arrive as a bareroot or in a small pot. Bareroot plants should be planted as soon as possible after arrival. Potted plants can wait a week or two if kept watered and in partial shade.

Spacing Guidelines

Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart for a mass planting or border edge. For individual specimens in a mixed border, give them 24 inches of elbow room. They will fill in quickly. In containers, one plant per 12-inch pot works well.

Remember that the mature spread is 18 inches. Planting too close creates competition for light and air circulation, which can lead to disease issues.

Planting Technique

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Loosen the soil at the bottom and sides. If your soil is heavy, mix in compost at a ratio of one part compost to three parts native soil. Do not add fertilizer to the planting hole.

Place the plant so the crown sits at soil level. Backfill, firm gently, and water deeply to settle the soil. Apply a two-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the crown. Gravel mulch works beautifully with this Mediterranean-style plant.

First Season Care

The first year is all about root development. Water deeply once a week unless rain provides an inch. Do not fertilize. Pinch off any flower buds that form in the first month to direct energy to roots. By midsummer, let it bloom.

You may see some transplant shock in the first few weeks. Yellowing lower leaves are normal. Just remove them. New growth at the tips means the plant is settling in.

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring Cleanup

In early spring, cut back all dead stems to about three inches above ground. New growth will emerge from the base. This is also the time to divide mature clumps if they have become woody in the center. Division every three to four years keeps plants vigorous.

Apply a thin layer of compost around the base in spring. This is all the fertilizer needed for the year. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. They promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Summer Deadheading

Deadheading extends the bloom season significantly. Shear the whole plant back by one-third after the first heavy flush fades in early summer. This looks drastic but stimulates a fresh wave of growth and flowers within two to three weeks.

Use hedge shears for speed. Cut to just above a set of leaves. The plant will look a bit shorn for a week, then bounce back bushier than before. A second lighter shear in late summer can prompt a third flush.

Fall Care

Leave the final flush of flowers standing for winter interest and to feed birds. The seed heads attract goldfinches. In late fall, you can cut back to six inches if you prefer a tidy look, but leaving the foliage provides crown protection.

In zones 3 and 4, apply a loose mulch of straw or shredded leaves after the ground freezes. Remove it gradually in early spring.

Pest and Disease Management

This plant has remarkably few problems. The aromatic oils deter most insects. Occasionally, you might see aphids on new growth. A strong blast of water dislodges them. Spider mites can appear in hot, dry, dusty conditions. Regular overhead watering prevents them.

Root rot is the main disease risk, caused by poor drainage. Powdery mildew can occur in humid climates with poor air circulation. Proper spacing and full sun prevent both issues.

Design Ideas and Companion Plants

Border Edging

The uniform mounded habit makes Purrsian Blue Catmint an exceptional edging plant. Plant it along a sidewalk or driveway where the fragrance will be released as people brush past. The soft blue flowers blur the hard line of hardscaping.

Space plants 18 inches apart for a continuous hedge effect. They will knit together by midsummer. The height is perfect. Tall enough to be seen, short enough not to block views or flop onto pavement.

Rose Companions

Catmint and roses are a classic pairing. The blue flowers contrast beautifully with pink, red, yellow, or white roses. The catmint covers the bare canes at the base of rose bushes. Both plants love full sun and well-drained soil.

The catmint blooms just as the first rose flush peaks, and continues long after. It also attracts beneficial insects that help control rose pests. Plant catmint 18 inches from the rose crown.

Mediterranean Garden

Combine with lavender, Russian sage, salvia, yarrow, and ornamental grasses for a drought-tolerant Mediterranean theme. The silver foliage of lavender and Russian sage echoes the gray-green catmint leaves. The blue flowers harmonize across species.

This combination thrives on neglect once established. It is perfect for a hellstrip, a slope, or any area where watering is difficult.

Container Gardens

Purrsian Blue Catmint shines in containers. Its compact size means it will not outgrow a pot quickly. Pair it with trailing plants like calibrachoa or verbena and a thriller like purple fountain grass.

Use a gritty potting mix designed for succulents or make your own with equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Pollinator Garden

If you want to support bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, this plant is a must. The nectar-rich flowers feed a wide range of pollinators. Plant in drifts of five or more for maximum impact. Pollinators prefer large patches of a single species.

Combine with coneflower, bee balm, butterfly weed, and asters for a season-long pollinator buffet. Avoid pesticides. Even organic ones can harm beneficial insects.

Real Gardener Experiences

What Reviewers Love

Reading through Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint plant reviews reveals consistent themes. Gardeners rave about the long bloom time. Many report flowers from May through October with deadheading. The compact habit gets high marks, especially from those with small gardens.

The deer resistance is frequently mentioned as a game-changer. Gardeners in rural areas say this is one of the few perennials they do not need to spray or fence. The fragrance is another favorite feature. People love brushing past it on garden paths.

Several reviewers note that the plants arrived healthy and established quickly. Spring Hill Nurseries has a reputation for shipping quality plants at the right planting time for each zone.

Common Complaints

No plant is perfect. Some negative Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint plant reviews mention plants arriving smaller than expected. Bareroot plants can look unimpressive but usually catch up fast. A few gardeners in very humid climates report powdery mildew issues.

Some reviewers expected a taller plant based on photos. Remember, this is a compact variety. If you want the traditional tall catmint, look for Walker’s Low or Six Hills Giant. A few people found the fragrance too strong, but that is subjective.

Climate-Specific Feedback

Gardeners in the Midwest and Northeast report excellent performance. The plant handles cold winters and humid summers well. In the Pacific Northwest, drainage is the key challenge. Raised beds or slopes work best.

Southern gardeners in zones 7 and 8 appreciate the heat tolerance but note that flowering may pause during the hottest weeks. It resumes when temperatures drop. Desert gardeners succeed with afternoon shade and occasional deep watering.

Container Grower Reports

Container gardeners love this variety. It stays proportionate to the pot and does not need constant repotting. Overwintering in pots is successful in zones 5 and up if the pot is large enough to insulate roots. In colder zones, move pots to an unheated garage.

One tip from container growers: use a heavy pot. The plant can catch wind like a sail when in full bloom.

Buying from Spring Hill Nurseries

What to Expect

Spring Hill Nurseries typically sells this plant as a bareroot division in spring or a potted plant in fall. Bareroot plants are dormant. They look like a tangle of roots with a few buds at the crown. This is normal and healthy.

Potted plants will have active growth. Both establish well if planted promptly. The company offers a one-year guarantee. If your plant fails to thrive, contact customer service for a replacement or refund.

Shipping Schedule

Orders ship based on your hardiness zone. Spring orders to warm zones ship as early as February. Cold zones receive plants in April or May. Fall shipping starts in September for northern zones, October for southern.

You will receive an email with tracking when your order ships. Open the box immediately. Bareroot plants should be planted within a day or two. Pot them up temporarily if weather delays planting.

Price and Value

Prices typically range from $15 to $25 per plant depending on size and promotion. This is mid-range for specialty perennials. Considering the years of performance and the fact that you can divide it every few years to make free plants, the value is excellent.

Watch for sales. Spring Hill Nurseries runs frequent promotions, especially for newsletter subscribers. Buying three or more often triggers a volume discount.

Customer Service

Most Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint plant reviews mention positive customer service experiences. The company is responsive to shipping damage claims and plant health issues. Their horticulturists can answer growing questions by phone or email.

Keep your order confirmation and photos of any issues. The guarantee requires notification within a specific timeframe, usually 30 days for shipping issues and one year for plant failure.

Propagation and Division

Division Method

Divide in early spring as new growth emerges. Dig up the entire clump. Use a sharp spade or knife to cut the root ball into sections, each with several shoots and roots. Replant immediately at the same depth.

Water divisions well and mulch. They may not bloom heavily the first year but will catch up by year two. Division every three to four years prevents the center from dying out.

Stem Cuttings

Take softwood cuttings in late spring. Cut four-inch stems just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves. Dip in rooting hormone. Stick in moist perlite. Cover with a plastic bag. Roots form in three to four weeks.

This method produces many plants from one mother plant. It is slower than division but useful if you want to share with friends.

Seed Propagation

Purrsian Blue Catmint is a patented cultivar. Propagation by seed is prohibited by plant patent laws. Seeds would not come true anyway. The resulting plants would vary in height, flower color, and habit. Stick with division or cuttings for identical plants.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Flopping Stems

If your plant flops open in the center, it usually means too much shade, too much water, or too much fertilizer. Move to full sun. Cut back on irrigation. Stop fertilizing. A midseason shear helps the plant regrow more compactly.

Older plants naturally become woody in the center. Division solves this. Discard the woody center. Replant the vigorous outer sections.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellow leaves at the base are normal as the plant grows. The plant sheds older leaves. Yellowing throughout suggests overwatering or poor drainage. Check soil moisture. If soggy, improve drainage or move the plant.

Nitrogen deficiency can cause yellowing, but this is rare in garden soil. A soil test confirms. If needed, apply a balanced organic fertilizer at half strength.

No Flowers

Lack of flowers usually means insufficient sun. Less than six hours of direct sun reduces blooming dramatically. Excess nitrogen fertilizer promotes leaves over flowers. Pruning at the wrong time can remove flower buds.

Very young plants may not bloom heavily their first year. They are building roots. Patience pays off.

Winter Kill

In zones 3 and 4, winter kill can occur if drainage is poor or if the plant goes into winter dry. Water deeply before the ground freezes. Mulch after freezing. Avoid fall fertilization which encourages tender growth.

If the crown rots over winter, the plant will not return. This is almost always a drainage issue. Replant in a better spot.

Environmental Benefits

Water Conservation

Once established, Purrsian Blue Catmint needs minimal supplemental water. This makes it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and areas with watering restrictions. Replacing thirsty lawn with a catmint border saves thousands of gallons annually.

Pollinator Support

The long bloom season provides nectar when many other plants are not flowering. Early spring and late fall flowers are especially valuable to pollinators emerging from or preparing for winter. The flower structure accommodates both long-tongued and short-tongued bees.

Reduced Chemical Use

Natural pest resistance means no insecticides needed. Disease resistance means no fungicides. This protects beneficial insects and soil life. The dense growth suppresses weeds, reducing herbicide use.

Carbon Sequestration

Like all perennial plants, catmint sequesters carbon in its root system. The deep taproot stores carbon below ground where it is stable. Perennial gardens store more carbon than annual beds that are tilled yearly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Care

How fast does it grow?

Purrsian Blue Catmint reaches mature size in one to two growing seasons. First-year plants may only reach half their final dimensions. By year two, they fill their allotted space.

Does it spread aggressively?

No. Unlike some mint family members, this catmint is a clump-former. It does not run by rhizomes. It slowly increases in diameter but stays put. Self-seeding is minimal and seedlings are easy to remove.

Is it safe for pets?

Catmint is non-toxic to dogs and cats. Cats may roll in it or chew it, which can damage the plant but will not harm the cat. The effect is similar to catnip but milder.

Can I grow it indoors?

Not recommended. Catmint needs full sun, seasonal temperature changes, and a winter dormancy period. It will not thrive as a houseplant. Grow it in a container outdoors instead.

When should I cut it back?

Cut back dead growth in early spring before new shoots appear. Shear after the first bloom flush for rebloom. Leave fall growth for winter protection. In warm zones, a light fall trim is optional.

Why is my plant not blooming?

Most common reasons: not enough sun, too much nitrogen fertilizer, pruning at wrong time, or plant is too young. Ensure six-plus hours of direct sun. Stop fertilizing. Prune only in spring or right after a bloom flush.

Conclusion

After diving deep into Spring Hill Nurseries Purrsian Blue Catmint plant reviews and growing this perennial myself, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype. This plant delivers exactly what it promises: months of blue flowers, a tidy compact shape, drought tolerance, and deer resistance. It asks for so little and gives so much in return.

Whether you are a new gardener looking for a confidence-building success or an experienced plant collector wanting a reliable workhorse, Purrsian Blue Catmint earns its spot in the garden. It bridges the gap between early spring bulbs and late summer perennials, keeping the color show going when the garden might otherwise have a lull.

The key to success is simple. Give it sun. Give it drainage. Give it space. Then step back and watch the pollinators arrive. Shear it once in midsummer. Divide it every few years. That is the entire maintenance schedule.

If you have been on the fence about ordering from Spring Hill Nurseries, their Purrsian Blue Catmint is a great plant to start with. The quality is consistent, the guarantee provides peace of mind, and the plant itself is a proven performer across a huge range of climates.

Add one to your cart this season. Plant it where you will brush past it daily. In a few months, you will understand why so many gardeners call this their favorite perennial. Sometimes the best plants are the ones that make gardening feel easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Purrsian Blue Catmint and regular catmint?

Purrsian Blue is a compact cultivar bred to stay 14-18 inches tall without flopping, unlike traditional catmint varieties that can reach 3 feet and splay open. It also has a longer bloom season and deeper blue flowers.

When does Spring Hill Nurseries ship Purrsian Blue Catmint?

Shipping is based on your USDA hardiness zone. Spring orders ship February through May, fall orders ship September through October. You receive tracking when your order ships.

How do I care for Purrsian Blue Catmint in winter?

Leave foliage standing for crown protection. In zones 3-4, apply loose mulch after ground freezes. Remove mulch gradually in spring. Ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot over winter.

Why is my catmint not flowering well?

Insufficient sun is the most common cause. This plant needs 6+ hours of direct sun. Excess nitrogen fertilizer, improper pruning timing, or young age can also reduce flowering.

Can I divide Purrsian Blue Catmint?

Yes, divide every 3-4 years in early spring as new growth emerges. Dig the clump, cut into sections with roots and shoots, and replant immediately. This rejuvenates woody centers.

Is Purrsian Blue Catmint the same as catnip?

No. Both are in the Nepeta genus, but catnip is Nepeta cataria. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) has showier flowers, better garden habit, and milder effect on cats. Purrsian Blue is an ornamental catmint hybrid.