Nepeta subsessilis

RHS Plant Profile
short-stalked catmint
Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming, upright perennial about 90cm in height, with aromatic dark green leaves to 10cm long, and whorls of pale lavender-purple flowers 2cm long, forming long, lax spikes in mid and late summer and early autumn

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

Prefers moist but well-drained soil in partial shade

Propagation

Divide in spring or autumn or take softwood cuttings in early summer. Propagate by seed in containers in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Gravel garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadheading plants regularly will prolong flowering

Pests

Slugs and snails may damage young growth

Diseases

Powdery mildews may be a problem in dry summers