Exploring Catmint Varieties

Catmint, or Nepeta, is a versatile perennial known for its aromatic foliage and delightful blooms. This plant attracts pollinators while being easy to grow, making it a favorite among gardeners. Despite its name, catmint isn’t limited to just being attractive to felines, as it offers much more for both gardens and gardeners. Let’s delve into the different varieties of catmint and what each one has to offer.

Nepeta racemosa

Nepeta racemosa, or dwarf catmint, is one of the most popular species in this genus. It features compact growth and is well-suited for border edging. It blooms prolifically with violet-blue flowers in late spring into early summer. Deadheading can promote a second flowering. This variety is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for rock gardens or dry borders.

• ‘Walker’s Low’: Despite its name, this cultivar can grow up to 30 inches tall. It’s prized for its long blooming period and minimal care requirements. The foliage is aromatic and deters deer and rabbits.
• ‘Blue Wonder’: A more compact choice, this variant grows to about 12 inches. ‘Blue Wonder’ offers deep blue flowers that contrast sharply against its gray-green leaves.

Nepeta faassenii

Nepeta faassenii, also known as Faassen’s catmint, is another well-loved variety. This hybrid is sterile, meaning it won’t self-seed excessively. Its growth habit is sprawly, making it an excellent ground cover. It typically blooms starting in late spring all the way through early autumn.

• ‘Junior Walker’: A dwarf version of ‘Walker’s Low’, it grows about 18 inches tall and similarly resists deer and rabbit browsing. Its light lavender-blue flowers need little maintenance.
• ‘Kit Kat’: Perfect for small spaces or containers, ‘Kit Kat’ reaches only about 12 inches in height. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with plentiful flowers.

Nepeta x faassenii

This hybrid shares attributes with both of its parent species. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Known for its toughness, it handles poor soil conditions and requires little water once established. Its elongated blooming season and dense mat-forming growth make it a great option for large areas.

• ‘Six Hills Giant’: Taller and bushier than many others, it can reach up to 36 inches high. It’s a vigorous grower with stunning flower spikes.

Nepeta cataria

Often referred to as true catnip, Nepeta cataria is the variety most associated with cats. It features coarser leaves and white to lavender flowers. While not as traditionally ornamental as other varieties, it holds significant appeal for feline enthusiasts. This variety grows taller than others, often reaching 3 to 4 feet.

• ‘Citriodora’: Also known as lemon catnip, this variety has a distinct lemon fragrance. It is less favored by cats but more appealing to humans.

Nepeta mussinii

Sometimes referred to as Nepeta racemosa or by the common name Persian catmint, Nepeta mussinii is notable for its moderate size and blue-violet flowers. Similar to other catmints, it thrives under similar low-maintenance conditions. Its grey-green foliage adds subtle interest to garden borders and containers.

Caring for Catmint

While catmint is generally easy to care for, there are some basic guidelines to ensuring it thrives. Plant catmint in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and once established, exhibits significant drought resistance. Prune it back after the first bloom to encourage a possible second round of flowering. This also helps maintain a tidy appearance. Avoid over-watering as too much moisture can lead to root rot. An annual division is rarely required, but if the plant begins to thin in the center, it might be beneficial.

Cat Operation and Caution

Catmint has a significant impact on cats, more so in Nepeta cataria due to nepetalactone, the compound cats find intoxicating. Ensure your own or local strays don’t over-frequent your garden patch, as too much exposure can damage the plants. Consider erecting barriers or choosing a less cat-attracting variety if this is problematic.

Pests and Problems

Catmint is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew or root rot if improperly cared for. Spacing plants correctly and ensuring adequate airflow can mitigate these issues. Its natural resistance to deer and rabbits is beneficial for gardens prone to wildlife encroachment.

Landscape Uses

With its adaptability, catmint fits seamlessly into many garden designs. It works well in cottage and perennial gardens due to its free-flowering nature. Use catmint along pathways, or as a natural pest deterrent in vegetable gardens. In mixed borders, it pairs well with roses, daylilies, and other low-maintenance perennials. Its calming colors complement bright blooms effectively. Gardeners often use catmint to soften hard edges or paths with its lush, overhanging branches.

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