How to Grow Catmint Six Hills Giant

Catmint Six Hills Giant

Nepeta × faassenii 'Six Hills Giant'

herb

Six Hills Giant is a vigorous hybrid catmint cultivar prized for its impressive height and profuse lavender-blue flowers. A member of the mint family, it's a semi-evergreen perennial that attracts pollinators and deer-resistant garden borders. Known for its aromatic foliage and extended blooming season from late spring through fall.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates

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Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately during first growing season; minimal supplemental water needed in zones 4-7; water during extended dry spells in zone 8+

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Spacing: 24 inches

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Days to maturity: 60-90 days to first flowers; full mature size in 2-3 years

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Planting depth: Plant root ball at soil level; space 24 inches apart

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy or sandy soil

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

compost perlite or sand for drainage avoid heavy clay and wet soils

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 4-9, particularly excellent in zones 5-8

4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a

Growth Stages

Establishment

4-8 weeks

Young plants develop root systems and initial foliage; growth is relatively slow the first season

Water consistently during establishment phase; mulch lightly to retain moisture; avoid fertilizer which promotes weak growth; ensure excellent drainage

Vegetative Growth

Spring to early summer, 6-8 weeks

Bushy mounding form develops with aromatic gray-green foliage; plants reach 18-24 inches tall by mid-season

Pinch back stems in early spring to encourage bushiness; remove dead or woody stems; minimal fertilizer needed; tolerates dry conditions well

Flowering - First Flush

Late May to July, 6-8 weeks

Dense spikes of small lavender-blue tubular flowers emerge from leaf axils; flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming; increase water slightly during hot weather; this cultivar blooms prolifically once established

Summer Blooming

July to September, 8-12 weeks

Plants continue producing flowers throughout summer; foliage remains aromatic and attractive even in heat

Deadhead regularly for extended blooms; reduce watering in cooler climates; in zones 8-9, provide afternoon shade and increase water to prevent stress

Fall Decline & Dormancy

October onward

Flowering tapers as temperatures drop; foliage persists but may turn bronze; plants enter semi-evergreen dormancy

Allow some dried seed heads to remain for winter interest and wildlife; cut back in late fall or early spring to 6-8 inches; no frost protection needed in zones 4+

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Russian sage Salvias Coreopsis Achillea Lavender Santolina Sedum Ornamental grasses Black-eyed Susan Salvia × sylvestris

Avoid planting near:

plants requiring constant moisture shade-loving perennials invasive mint species

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; increase humidity; use neem oil if severe; rarely problematic on established plants
Yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; usually not a significant issue
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur or fungicide if needed; 'Six Hills Giant' is generally resistant with good drainage

Uses

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Herbal Tea & Beverages

Culinary

Fresh or dried leaves brew into a mild, aromatic tea with a slightly sweet and minty flavor. Commonly used in herbal blends to soothe digestion and provide a calming beverage. [source]

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Traditional Herbal Remedy

Medicinal

Catmint has been used in folk medicine for centuries to support relaxation and calm nervous tension. The leaves contain volatile oils believed to have mild sedative and antispasmodic properties. [source]

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Pollinator Magnet

Wildlife

Profuse summer blooms attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and beneficial insects. Excellent for supporting pollinators in ornamental and vegetable gardens. [source]

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Fresh & Dried Floral Arrangements

Household

Attractive lavender-blue flower spikes and aromatic foliage work beautifully in fresh bouquets or dried arrangements. Dried catmint retains color and fragrance for several months. [source]

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Fragrant Crafts & Sachets

Craft

Dried flowers and foliage can be used to create potpourri, sachets, and herbal crafts. The pleasant aroma persists long after drying. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Harvest fresh foliage anytime during the growing season by pinching or cutting stems; best flavor before flowers fully open. Cut flowers individually for fresh arrangements or dry entire flower spikes by hanging upside down in a warm, dry location. Cut back the entire plant to 6-8 inches in late fall or early spring.

Fun Facts

🌱 Despite the common name 'catmint,' most catmint species have minimal appeal to cats compared to true catnip (Nepeta cataria); however, some individual cats are still attracted to it.
🌱 'Six Hills Giant' is a particularly vigorous cultivar that can reach 24-36 inches tall and wide at maturity, making it larger than standard Nepeta × faassenii selections.
🌱 Catmint has been cultivated in European gardens for over 500 years, traditionally valued for both medicinal properties and as an ornamental border plant.

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