Horticultural Highlight: Nepeta

Common name: Catmint

Family name: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

Plant type: Herbaceous perennial

Site requirements: Full sun - part shade

Zones: 4-8

Size hxw: 24”x36”

A similar aesthetic to lavender but without the woody growth, Nepeta makes a big impact in a pollinator garden, looks lovely In a cottage or edible flower garden and can handle the heat in a drought tolerant landscape.

Nepeta has a long bloom period from May until October. It produces pollen and nectar attractive to bumblebees & honey bees, solitary bees including mason bees; various wasps, butterflies, moths and even hummingbirds flock to the aromatic spikes of their soft purple flowers. This plant also deters pests including aphids, rabbits, voles & deer. 

Catmint is Native to Europe & this cultivar was first created by Faassen Nurseries in the Netherlands.The flowers are sterile, which means that the plant cannot propagate through seed dispersal. These characteristics & more make them a wonderful addition to a garden without the worry of invasive tendencies. 

Other tasteful cultivars include: 

Nepeta x faassenii ‘Alba’ 

Nepeta looks beautiful mixed in amongst roses, echinacea, and yarrow.  If you're interested in learning more about pollinator gardens, or in a customized plant list please reach out!