Nepeta cataria
catmint
N. cataria is an herbaceous perennial forming a loose clump of branched stems with oval to triangular, greyish-green, toothed, strongly aromaticleaves that are highly attractive to cats. Small white flowers spotted with violet are borne in long, dense, terminal spikes from summer into autumn.
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
Get involved
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