Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic' — The Lavender Alternative That Thrives Where Lavender Won't
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If you've ever struggled to grow lavender, Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic' could be exactly what your garden needs. This outstanding catmint variety offers the same soft, hazy lavender-blue effect as a lavender hedge — but with far greater adaptability to a wider range of garden soils, provided they are free-draining.
About Summer Magic
Bred by Malcolm Spencer in the UK and launched by Hardy's Cottage Garden Plants from their Hampshire nursery at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2013, 'Summer Magic' quickly established itself as one of the most reliable and free-flowering catmints available. It produces branching stems clothed in beautiful lavender-blue flowers continuously from May to September — one of the longest seasons of any Nepeta in cultivation.
Unlike some catmints that flop and sprawl, 'Summer Magic' holds itself up well even in poor weather, making it an excellent choice as an edging plant along paths, borders, and driveways.
Awards & Recognition
'Summer Magic' has earned an impressive roll call of accolades since its launch:
- Shortlisted for the New Plant Award at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2013
- Winner, International Stauden Union Award 2016
- RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM)
- Protected by EU and UK Plant Variety Rights (PVR)
Growing Tips
'Summer Magic' is straightforward to grow and rewards a little attention with months of colour:
- Soil: Any reasonable, free-draining soil — it does not need rich conditions
- Aspect: Full sun for best flowering
- Repeat flowering: Cut back during the growing season to encourage fresh flushes of bloom
- Height × Spread: 35cm × 45cm — compact and well-behaved
- Growing medium: All our plants are grown peat-free
Why We Love It
This is a plant that earns its place in the garden year after year. Whether you're planting a low hedge, softening a path edge, or filling a sunny border with long-lasting colour, Nepeta 'Summer Magic' delivers with minimal fuss. It's a magnet for bees and pollinators throughout its long season — and unlike many catmints, it does not produce nepetalactone, so it won't attract cats to your borders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nepeta 'Summer Magic' a good substitute for lavender?
Yes — 'Summer Magic' produces the same soft, hazy lavender-blue effect as a lavender hedge and is an excellent alternative for gardens where lavender struggles. It thrives in any reasonable, free-draining soil in full sun.
How do I get Nepeta 'Summer Magic' to flower again?
Cut the plant back during the growing season after the first flush of flowers fades. This encourages fresh new growth and a repeat display of blooms from May right through to September.
Will Nepeta 'Summer Magic' attract cats?
No — unusually for a catmint, 'Summer Magic' does not produce nepetalactone, the compound that attracts cats. You can enjoy it in your borders without unwanted feline attention!
Is Nepeta 'Summer Magic' good for pollinators?
Absolutely — 'Summer Magic' is a magnet for bees and other pollinators throughout its exceptionally long flowering season.
Can I use Nepeta 'Summer Magic' as an edging plant?
Yes — unlike some catmints that flop and sprawl, 'Summer Magic' holds itself up well even in bad weather, making it an ideal choice for edging paths, borders, and driveways.
Who bred Nepeta 'Summer Magic'?
'Summer Magic' was bred by Malcolm Spencer in the UK and introduced by Hardy's Cottage Garden Plants at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2013. It holds EU and UK Plant Variety Rights protection.
Available by mail order across the UK, or come and find us at our Hampshire nursery.