Nepeta hederacea ‘Variegata’ -Variegated Ground Ivy

Nepeta hederacea ‘Variegata’ (Variegated Ground Ivy) is a charming trailing perennial with soft green leaves edged in creamy white and delicate lavender-blue flowers that appear through the warmer months. Despite the Nepeta name, it’s actually more closely related to ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea), making it a lovely low-growing or cascading plant rather than a classic upright catmint. It’s perfect for softening the edges of pots, spilling over raised beds, or filling gaps in shady corners with a gentle, cottage garden feel.

Plant Care

Position: Happy in partial shade to full shade, though it can tolerate some gentle sun. Ideal for underplanting, hanging baskets, or trailing from containers where its variegation can brighten darker spots.

Hardiness: Fully hardy perennial in the UK. Evergreen in milder conditions, though it may look a bit tired in winter before fresh growth appears in spring.

Hot Tips: Great for softening edges and adding movement to displays. It spreads easily, so can be used as a ground cover, but is just as useful in pots where it can trail beautifully. Trim back if it gets too leggy to encourage fresh, bushy growth.