Nepeta (Catmint)

Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, includes approximately 250 species of herbaceous perennials in the mint family Lamiaceae. These plants are native to regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa and are known for their attractive flowers and fragrant foliage.

Nepeta plants typically grow in clumps or mounds and produce spikes of lavender, blue, or white flowers in the spring and summer months. The foliage of Nepeta plants is highly aromatic and can be used as a culinary herb or for medicinal purposes.

Main Catmint Species

Nepeta cataria (catnip): Nepeta cataria is a highly aromatic and attractive plant that is well known for its effects on cats. The plant has gray-green leaves and produces clusters of white or lavender flowers. Nepeta cataria typically grows up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall and wide. Nepeta cataria is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. It blooms from late spring to early fall.

Nepeta x faassenii (Faassen’s catmint): Nepeta x faassenii is a low-maintenance plant that is highly attractive to pollinators. It produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are highly fragrant when crushed. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), with a spread of about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm). Nepeta x faassenii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. It blooms from spring through autumn.

Nepeta racemosa (catmint or Persian catmint): Nepeta racemosa is a low-growing and spreading plant that is highly ornamental. It produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators. It typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm), with a spread of about 2 feet (60 cm). Nepeta racemosa is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. and blooms in late spring to early summer, with a second flush of flowers later in the summer if deadheaded.

Nepeta sibirica (Siberian catmint): Nepeta sibirica is a hardy and reliable plant that produces whorls of violet flowers that last for an extended period during the summer. It has gray-green leaves that are highly fragrant when crushed. It typically grows to a height of 3 feet (90 cm) with a spread of about 5 feet (150 cm). Nepeta sibirica is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Nepeta grandiflora (large-flowered catmint): Nepeta grandiflora is a tall and vigorous plant that produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers. It has slightly hairy, gray-green leaves that are highly fragrant when crushed. It typically grows up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall and wide. Nepeta grandiflora is hardy in USDA zones 4-7. It blooms in early to mid-summer, usually from June to July.

Nepeta nervosa: Nepeta nervosa, also known as nerve catmint or musk catmint, is a herbaceous perennial that produces spikes of white to pale blue flowers. The plant has a musky scent and fuzzy, grey-green leaves. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall and wide.  Nepeta nervosa is hardy in USDA zones 4-7. It blooms from early to mid-summer.

Nepeta govaniana: Nepeta govaniana, also known as Kashmir catmint, is a herbaceous perennial that produces spikes of pale yellow to cream-colored flowers. The plant has gray-green leaves that are highly fragrant when crushed. It typically grows to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide. Nepeta govaniana is hardy in USDA zones 4-7. It blooms from summer through fall.