Buy nepeta (catmint)
Nepeta is a popular choice for gardeners who appreciate its beauty and resilience. Known for its long blooming period from May to September, it features square gray-green hairy stems and aromatic leaves. The lavender-blue lip flowers grow in spikes, attracting bees and butterflies. This makes it an excellent addition to bee and butterfly gardens. Its scented foliage and drought-tolerant nature make it ideal for dry borders and fragrant borders. Many seek to buy Nepeta in the UK to enhance their outdoor spaces. This pollinator plant not only adds colour but also supports garden biodiversity. Discover why Nepeta catmint is a favourite among those who wish to cultivate a vibrant garden.
What Is Nepeta? Meet the Soft-Leaved, Long-Blooming Catmint
Nepeta, often known as catmint, is a delightful plant that adds charm to any garden. With aromatic leaves and long-lasting blooms, it is beloved for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Synonyms for Nepeta include catmint, Nepeta flower, bee favourite, and border filler. In gardens, it is popular for borders, group plantings, pots, planters, natural gardens, and insect corners.
Nepeta is part of the Lamiaceae family, originally from Europe and Asia. Known for its hardiness, it thrives in various climates and regrows quickly after pruning. Catmint is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its ecological role, as it is rich in nectar and attracts bees and cats with its scent.
The name "catmint" comes from the Latin name for the city of Nepete and is mythologically linked to protection and joy. Suitable for UK gardens, Nepeta can withstand drought and offers fragrant foliage. For those wanting to enhance their garden with a pollinator plant, buying Nepeta is a great choice.
Traits of Nepeta: Blue Flowers, Scented Foliage and Soft Mound Shape
Nepeta is a perennial plant that grows with an airy and ground-covering form. It is known for its gray-green hairy stems and aromatic leaves. As it matures, Nepeta develops into a soft mound shape, often forming a beautiful border or natural garden feature. It spreads quickly and is tolerant of drought conditions, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.
Nepeta begins its life cycle with quick regrowth after pruning, often attracting bees and cats. The development from its initial sprouting to a fully mature plant takes time, but its hardy nature ensures it thrives with minimal care. It grows well in pots and planters, adding a touch of nature to any space.
The blooming period for Nepeta spans from May to September. Various factors, such as climate, temperature, and soil care, influence its bloom. Older plants tend to bloom more profusely, particularly when the soil is well-prepared and maintained.
The flowers of Nepeta are usually purple-blue, lavender, or white, varying by species. The colour intensity can be affected by the plant's age, soil conditions, and exposure to light. Proper care enhances the vibrancy of these blooms, which are a delight to see.
Nepeta is renowned for its aromatic scent, which comes from its leaves and is most intense during blooming. This fragrance adds to its appeal in the garden, attracting both pollinators and cats.
The mature height of Nepeta varies significantly, ranging from 20 cm to 100 cm, depending on factors like species, location, and care. The Nepeta is an aromatic garden plant much loved by bees.
Nepeta, with its grey-green, aromatic leaves, brings a unique charm to any garden. The lanceolate shape and slightly hairy texture of its leaves help reduce evaporation, making it well-suited for dry conditions. In winter, Nepeta retains its foliage, although some varieties may lose leaves in colder climates. Known for its hardiness, Nepeta thrives in USDA zones 5 to 6, enduring temperatures as low as -29°C. Despite its winter resilience, protection from harsh winds and ensuring well-drained soil can enhance its frost tolerance. This plant is a valuable addition as it blooms profusely from May to September, attracting bees and supporting biodiversity in gardens. Nepeta's non-toxic nature makes it safe for gardens with children and pets. Its adaptability to heat and drought is significant, thanks to its hairy leaves and deep root system. The plant requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens. As a herb garden favourite, Nepeta impresses with its lavender-like foliage and purple flower spikes, creating striking border fillers. Growing Nepeta faassenii UK is popular for edging due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Overall, Nepeta enhances the garden's ecosystem, offering food and shelter for beneficial insects, thus promoting a balanced environment.
Using Nepeta in Borders, Edges and Pollinator Gardens
Nepeta is a versatile plant that can enhance a garden in numerous ways. It is highly valued for its scented foliage and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Here are some effective ways to incorporate Nepeta into your garden:
Use Nepeta in borders to create a soft, flowing edge that can define garden areas with its charming appearance.
Consider group planting of Nepeta to form a mass of colour and fragrance, ideal for larger garden sections.
Plant Nepeta in pots or planters to bring its aromatic qualities to patios or balconies, making outdoor areas more inviting.
Create a natural garden by integrating Nepeta as it complements other native plants and supports local wildlife.
Enhance an insect corner with Nepeta to draw in bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity and a thriving ecosystem.
Nepeta thrives in dry borders, providing a low-maintenance option for gardeners looking to add interest without much effort. Its fragrant borders are perfect for sensory gardens or spaces where the scent can be appreciated. Bee and butterfly gardens benefit significantly from Nepeta, as it draws pollinators with ease. In prairie gardens, Nepeta fits well with its ability to mimic wild landscapes.
For those interested in adding one of these versatile plants to their garden, catmint is an excellent choice. Consider purchasing catmint to experience its beauty and benefits firsthand. Its role as a pollinator plant not only enhances the garden's aesthetics but also supports essential ecological functions. Companion Plants That Thrive Alongside Nepeta
Nepeta is a wonderful choice for gardens with dry borders or fragrant borders. It pairs beautifully with several other plants, creating a harmonious and colourful display. Combining Nepeta with Salvia can enhance the garden's visual appeal, as both share similar growing conditions and attract pollinators. Another great companion is Achillea, offering a contrast in texture and a variety of bloom colours. Lavandula can be included to add fragrance and complement Nepeta's long blooming period. Coreopsis and Echinacea also make excellent partners, adding vibrant colours and height variations. These combinations work well because they all thrive in sunny spots and have similar water needs, making them drought-tolerant. Moreover, Nepeta has a long flowering period and is an ideal edge plant in a border with perennials . The mix of textures, heights, and colours ensures a dynamic and lively garden setting. Nepeta (Catmint) not only adds beauty but also attracts bees, making it beneficial for pollinator gardens. Choose these plant companions for a garden that is both visually pleasing and environmentally friendly.
Soil, Drainage and Light Needs for Healthy Nepeta Growth
Nepeta thrives in full sun to light shade, needing at least 4-6 hours of sun daily. Too much shade affects its growth and flowering. It's important to provide a location with well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Nepeta handles wind well, but using windbreaks like hedges can offer extra protection. Ideal soil for Nepeta is calcareous and well-drained, supporting its drought-tolerant nature. Regular fertilising enhances growth, especially in the growing season. Soil moisture should be dry to moderately moist; too much water can be harmful, especially in clay soils. The pH preference for Nepeta is slightly alkaline, favouring conditions that promote healthy root development. Ensuring these conditions will help maintain a lush, flowering plant. Planting in borders, Nepeta adds beauty with its scented foliage and serves as a pollinator plant, attracting bees. Consider adding this drought-tolerant fragrant perennial to the garden for a vibrant and beneficial landscape feature.
How to Plant Nepeta for Quick Establishment and Dense Flowering
Planting Nepeta can be done in spring or late summer when conditions are dry and sunny. Container-grown plants can be set anytime except during frost, while balled plants are best in spring and autumn. The right planting distance depends on the plant type and expected growth. Check the Heijnen product page for specific recommendations about plants per metre. Soil preparation is crucial; use well-draining, calcareous soil with moderate fertility. Heijnen planting soil is recommended for best results. Full sun exposure is essential, avoiding heavy and wet soils. Start with thorough watering post-planting and maintain regular watering until established. Fertilisation during the growing season promotes health and flowering. Pruning can encourage repeat blooms, and the plant's drought tolerance makes it suitable for sunny borders. Catmint, known for its scented foliage, is also a favourite bee plant. Its greyish leaves help reduce evaporation, perfect for drought-tolerant borders. Ensure at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for vibrant growth.
Caring for Nepeta: Cutting Back, Dividing and Re-Blooming
Nepeta, also known as catmint, is loved by bees and looks beautiful in borders. Proper care ensures it blooms from May to September. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy Nepeta plants:
Plant Nepeta in full sun with dry, calcareous soil. It's drought-tolerant and thrives in these conditions.
Prune Nepeta after its first bloom in July to encourage a second round of flowers. Use sharp secateurs to remove old leaves and flower heads in spring.
Fertilise sparingly. This plant usually doesn't need much feeding, but adding compost in spring can support growth.
Water Nepeta deeply but infrequently. Check the soil's top inch; if dry, it's time to water.
Dividing Nepeta every few years helps it stay healthy. Dividing is best in spring when new growth begins.
Protect from harsh winter winds by adding mulch to the base to insulate roots.
If transplanting is necessary, do so in spring or autumn. Water well after moving to help the roots establish.
Nepeta is a perennial that quickly regrows after pruning and attracts both bees and cats. For garden enthusiasts, it is a delightful addition to any border as a bee favourite and border filler. For those looking to enhance their garden, consider buying catmint, also known as Nepeta.
The Low-Growing, High-Impact Beauty of Nepeta Plants
Nepeta brings charm to any garden with its beautiful flowers and aromatic leaves. Known for its purple-blue and lavender blooms, Nepeta creates a stunning display from spring to autumn. This plant's scent draws butterflies and bees, making it an essential addition to any pollinator garden. The foliage, often grey-green or blue-green, adds texture and colour contrast. As a drought-tolerant perennial, Nepeta is a tough yet graceful choice for borders and dry areas. Its airy growth form covers the ground beautifully, offering visual delight and functional benefits. Nepeta is a fragrant butterfly plant and cat favourite. During autumn, its leaves may bring subtle changes in colour, enhancing the seasonal transition in the garden. Nepeta catmint bee plant enriches garden life by providing shelter and food for various creatures. It's versatile enough to serve as a border filler, thriving in fragrant and bee gardens. Long blooming and with scented foliage, Nepeta is perfect for dry borders, where its low-maintenance nature shines. This plant is a true garden ally, blending beauty with ecological benefits, making it a drought-tolerant border plant ideal for any garden setting.
Popular Nepeta Types Grown in UK Pollinator-Friendly Spaces Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a favourite in many UK gardens for its aromatic leaves and long blooming season. This drought-tolerant fragrant perennial thrives from May to September, attracting pollinators with its scented foliage. Here are some popular types of catmint that are commonly grown:
Nepeta × faassenii : Known for its compact size and vibrant lavender-blue flowers, this variety is perfect for edging paths and borders. It grows well in various conditions and provides a long-lasting display.Nepeta × faassenii 'Six Hills Giant' : This variety offers robust growth, reaching up to 90 cm, and is ideal for creating a striking feature in the garden. Its aromatic leaves are particularly appealing to cats.Nepeta × faassenii 'Walker's Low' : A popular choice for the UK, with large, aromatic blooms that attract pollinators. This type requires minimal care and is perfect for those looking to buy Nepeta in the UK.Nepeta cataria : Known as true catnip, this variety is famous for its strong appeal to cats. It features white flowers and is often used in herbal remedies.Nepeta faassenii 'Dropmore' : With its compact growth habit, this type is excellent for smaller gardens or containers, offering a burst of blue throughout the growing season.Nepeta faassenii 'Grol' : This variety is known for its dense foliage and prolific blooming, making it a fantastic choice for mass plantings or ground cover.Nepeta faassenii 'Kit Cat' : A dwarf variety that is perfect for container gardening. Its neat form and fragrant leaves are ideal for small spaces.Nepeta faassenii 'Senior' : Offers a more upright growth compared to other varieties, with aromatic leaves that make it a great choice for attracting pollinators.Nepeta govaniana : Unique yellow flowers distinguish this variety, which adds a different hue to the garden and is perfect for mixed borders.Nepeta nervosa : Smaller in stature, this type is ideal for rock gardens or the front of borders, with its vibrant blue spikes.Nepeta racemosa 'Grog' : Known for its long-lasting blooms, this variety maintains its colour well into the season, offering continuous interest.Nepeta racemosa 'Snowflake' : Offers a refreshing change with its white flowers, providing a striking contrast when mixed with other plants.Nepeta sibirica : Another robust variety reaching heights of over 60 cm, it offers a tall, vertical presence with its blue flower spikes.
These popular and widely used Nepeta types are available to order online at Heijnen, making it easy to enhance any garden with these lovely, aromatic plants.
Is Nepeta for You? Key Strengths and Occasional Drawbacks
Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a popular choice for many gardens. This hardy plant is not only beautiful but also offers several benefits.
Advantages:
Drought tolerant: Nepeta can thrive with little water, making it ideal for drier climates.
Long flowering: The plant blooms for an extended period, adding colour to gardens for months.
<
li>Bee and butterfly friendly: Nepeta attracts pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
Fragrant foliage: The leaves have a pleasant scent, enhancing the sensory experience in gardens.
Suitable for borders: This plant is excellent for creating attractive borders in garden designs.
Disadvantages:
May collapse in rain: Heavy rain can cause the plant to collapse temporarily.
Can spread: Nepeta has a tendency to spread, so regular maintenance is required.
Loses shape without pruning: Without pruning, it can become leggy and lose its form.
Proper soil preparation, location choice, and timely care and fertilisation can reduce the risk of diseases and pests. Ensure plants are well-maintained for optimal growth and bloom.
Buy Nepeta Today from Heijnen’s Bee-Loving Perennial Range
Nepeta, with its beautiful blue-violet flowers, is perfect for adding colour from May to September. Heijnen offers Nepeta known for its drought-tolerant nature and fragrant foliage. It's ideal for dry and fragrant borders, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. The long-flowering season ensures a vibrant display, making Nepeta a top choice for bee and butterfly gardens.
Nepeta is not only a favourite among insects but also has aromatic leaves that appeal to cats. This makes it a delightful addition to any prairie garden. Its resilience in different garden settings makes it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. With easy maintenance, simply cut back after bloom to encourage fresh growth.
Purchasing Nepeta ensures a stunning and wildlife-friendly garden. Heijnen provides high-quality plants, making it easy to buy Nepeta in the UK. Embrace the charm of this drought-tolerant fragrant perennial by adding it to your borders today.
Order Nepeta (Catmint) from Heijnen and bring a fragrant sea of blue-violet flowers to your garden that attracts cats and bees.