Nepeta cataria
catmint
A perennial forming a loose clump of branched stems with oval to triangular, greyish-green, toothed, strongly aromatic leaves that are highly attractive to cats. Small white flowers spotted with violet are borne in long, dense, terminal spikes from summer into autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Purple White | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Purple White | Green Grey Silver | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- 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
- Europe, SW & C Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn or by division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Trim after flowering to keep plants compact
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry summers
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