Nepeta, or catmint, is a versatile, hardy perennial that doesn't really get the respect it deserves in the garden. It comes in shades of vibrant bluish purple, like this Siberian catmint, as well as soft pinks and whites. The grey foliage is attractive and deer resistant. Cut the whole plant back after flowering and it will grow back and rebloom. In many cooler climates, Nepeta is recommended as a substitute for lavender. But Nepeta has its own merits and can be grown most anywhere, whether the winters are cold and snowy or the climate stays hot and dry.
And, as we'll see, Nepeta combines beautifully with other garden plants. You can achieve the effect you desire by choosing the right combinations.