Nepeta
Nepeta, commonly known as catnip or catmint, is a versatile and enchanting genus beloved for its easy care and lovely blossoms. With origins stretching to the heart of Siberia, these plants have adapted to thrive in a variety of climates and are well-regarded for their attractive foliage and delicate flowers. Often utilized in borders and group plantings, Nepeta provides a lengthy season of interest with blooms appearing from late spring through to early autumn.
Key Features The Nepeta genus stands out with several notable features that make it a favorite among gardeners:
Flowering Period: Nepeta plants boast an extended flowering period, gracing gardens with their charming blue and purple blooms from May through August. Foliage: The foliage of Nepeta is equally appealing, presenting in shades of green, grey, and silver throughout the growing season, adding texture and color even when not in bloom. Growth Habit: Exhibiting a bushy and spreading growth habit, Nepeta creates a soft, informal look that is perfect for naturalistic and cottage-style gardens. Soil and Sun Requirements: These resilient plants are tolerant of all soil types, provided they are well-drained, and they flourish under full sun. Maintenance: Nepeta is not evergreen, so it requires minimal maintenance, but benefits from regular deadheading to extend flowering and maintain a tidy appearance. Tips To ensure your Nepeta plants thrive, consider these simple tips:
Planting: When planting Nepeta, choose a sunny spot to encourage optimal growth and flowering. Propagation: Nepeta can be easily propagated by division, softwood cuttings, or semi-ripe cuttings, offering a range of methods to expand your garden or share with fellow enthusiasts. Watering: These plants have average water needs, so be sure to establish a regular watering schedule, especially during dry spells. Pruning: Regularly remove faded flowers to promote a second flush of blooms and to prevent self-seeding, which can lead to overabundant spread within the garden. By incorporating Nepeta into your garden, you can enjoy its delightful blooms and attractive foliage throughout the warmer months, creating a peaceful and colorful retreat.
Types Embrace the serene beauty and subtle charm offered by the enchanting varieties of Nepeta, commonly known as catnip or catmint. These perennials boast a profusion of lavender to violet flowers that gracefully sway atop fragrant foliage, creating a picturesque display of color and texture in any garden setting. Ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as a whimsical ground cover, Nepeta species are a treasure trove of visual delight and aromatic pleasure.
The Nepeta faassenii , commonly known as garden catmint or Faassen's catmint, is a perennial favorite among gardeners. This herbaceous plant graces gardens with its delicate blue flowers during the warm months of June and July. Renowned for its ease of care and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, Nepeta × faassenii is an excellent addition to borders and flower beds, providing a splash of color and a pleasant structure with its gray-green foliage and charming flower spikes. The Nepeta faassenii 'Six Hills Giant' is a robust variety of catmint that offers a profusion of striking blue to purple flowers from May through August. This perennial is highly valued for its extended blooming period and ability to attract a host of pollinators to the garden. Its aromatic foliage also adds a sensory delight to any garden setting. Ideal for creating a soft, romantic feel in cottage gardens, the 'Six Hills Giant' is both a visual and olfactory treasure. The Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' is celebrated for its enchanting blue and purple blooms that grace the summer garden in June and July. Often referred to as catmint, this hardy perennial is prized for its aromatic foliage and undemanding nature. It adds a touch of whimsy to any landscape design, cascading beautifully over edges or softening hardscapes. Its low-maintenance character, coupled with its drought tolerance, makes it a splendid choice for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking to create a serene and inviting outdoor space.