Nepeta (Catmint)

The enduring charm of catmint
Many gardeners appreciate the Nepeta plant for its reliable, repeat performance. This perennial tolerates heat and dry conditions. Once established, Catmint is drought-tolerant and dependable, making it a wise choice for a wide range of gardens.

Its charm lies in contrast. Soft mounds of silvery-green foliage support airy stems bearing lavender-blue flowers, typically reaching 50 cm in height. Flowering begins in late spring and often continues into early autumn, creating a long, effortless display. The soft lavender-blue tones pair beautifully with Roses, Peonies and ornamental grasses, particularly in cottage-style planting schemes.

Catmint also offers practical benefits. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens. Its aromatic foliage not only helps deter deer and rabbits but also releases a refreshing scent when brushed against, enhancing the sensory appeal of your outdoor space.

How can you use Nepeta plants?
The Nepeta flower is remarkably versatile. Its flexible growth habit and drought tolerance make it well-suited to common garden challenges.

Catmint works particularly well in:

• Borders and edging: Plant along pathways or at the front of borders. Its rounded form softens hard lines and creates a natural flow.
• Underplanting Roses: The lavender-blue flowers enhance Rose blooms and disguise bare stems.
• Mass planting: Use in generous drifts for a calm, cohesive effect.
• Rock gardens: Thrives in lean, well-drained soil.
• Containers: Compact varieties perform well in pots with free-draining compost.
• Roadside or dry strips: Combine with other drought-tolerant perennials such as Lavender, Salvia, Agastache, Sedum and ornamental grasses.

Other plants as beautiful companions
A Catmint plant truly shines when thoughtfully paired. Create balance by combining contrasting textures, heights and flowering times. Excellent companions include Roses, Alliums, Salvia, Lavender, Echinacea and ornamental grasses. For the best effect, plant in groups rather than as individual specimens.

Nepeta varieties in the UK: from ‘Walker’s Low’ to ‘Snowflake’
Not all Catmint varieties look alike. The genus Nepeta includes species originating from regions such as northern Iran, and modern cultivars have been refined for size, form and flowering performance. At DutchGrown, you will find:

• Nepeta ‘Junior Walker’: A compact, low-growing perennial renowned for its aromatic grey-green foliage and abundant lavender-blue flowers. This cultivar is a sterile dwarf form of ‘Walker’s Low’.
• Nepeta ‘Snowflake’: A charming perennial prized for its profusion of white flowers and fragrant grey-green foliage.

How to grow thriving Catmint
Successful growth begins with the right location and soil conditions:

• Position: Plant in full sun for the strongest flowering, although it will tolerate partial shade.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
• Planting depth: Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots. Position the plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting, then reduce watering once established.

How to care for Nepeta?
Caring for Catmint is straightforward:

• Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist during the first growing season. Established plants require less water and are drought-tolerant.
• Deadheading: Lightly trim after flowering to encourage further blooms and maintain a neat shape.
• Division: Divide mature clumps every few years to maintain vigour and create new plants.
• Winter care: Ensure the soil does not remain waterlogged; excess moisture can cause root rot.

Buy top-quality Nepeta bare roots at DutchGrown
When choosing Catmint for your garden, quality is essential. At DutchGrown, we select strong, top-grade bare roots to ensure confident planting and reliable results. Founded in 1882 and still family-run, we bring generations of expertise to every Nepeta we offer.

We focus on dependable varieties that thrive in full sun, support pollinators and complement other perennials. Explore our Catmint collection and select the varieties that suit your space. With the right start, your garden will reward you with graceful lavender-blue blooms, healthy growth and structure that returns season after season. We deliver throughout the United Kingdom.

Frequently asked questions about Nepeta (Catmint)

Does Nepeta need full sun?
Nepeta thrives in full sun, where it produces dense, vibrant blooms, silvery-green foliage and airy stems. However, adaptable and tolerant of partial shade, reduced sunlight may result in leggier growth and fewer flowers.

Where is the best place to plant Catmint?
Plant Catmint in a sunny position with well-drained soil. While it tolerates partial shade, full sun promotes a compact shape and prolific flowering. This plant is suitable for a wide range of climates. Avoid poorly drained areas, as this drought-tolerant perennial prefers relatively dry conditions to prevent root rot.

Are cats attracted to Nepeta?
Yes, many cats are attracted to Nepeta. The plant produces nepetalactone, a natural compound that triggers a euphoric response in approximately 70% of cats. Catmint is non-addictive and generally safe, although excessive consumption may cause mild digestive upset.

Does catmint come back every year?
Catmint is a reliable perennial that returns year after year with the right circumstances. With minimal maintenance and sufficient sunlight, these resilient plants vigorously regrow each spring, providing consistent colour and fragrance for many years.