Catmint Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon'
ABOUT
The Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon' features an array of small, vibrant blue to purple flowers that form tight, rounded clusters atop its stems. This prolific bloomer boasts a rich floral display that creates a cloud-like effect when in full bloom. The flowers are tubular, with a somewhat bell-shaped appearance, luring in bees and butterflies with their alluring color and nectar. The foliage beneath these blossoms is a soft, silvery green, comprised of small, heart-shaped leaves with a delicate, almost lace-like texture. These leaves are arranged oppositely on square stems typical of the mint family, to which this plant belongs. With its overall mounding growth habit, the 'Blue Moon' presents a striking balance between its luxurious floral tufts and lush foliage, making it a delightful choice for accentuating garden spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Blue Moon Catmint, Blue Moon Nepeta.
Common names
Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon'.
ToxicityTo humans
Catmint, which includes the variety Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', is generally not toxic to humans. However, consuming any plant inappropriately can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals. Therefore, while not considered toxic, it is advisable to avoid ingestion and to handle the plant with care if you have sensitive skin.
To pets
Catmint, which includes the variety Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', is also generally not toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. In fact, catmint can have a mild stimulant effect on cats, similar to catnip, which is in the same genus. However, excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. Therefore, while it's not typically poisonous, it's still important to monitor your pets around the plant to prevent any negative reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', commonly known as Blue Moon Catmint, is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators which are crucial for a healthy ecosystem.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, Blue Moon Catmint is quite drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond the initial planting and occasional watering during extended dry periods, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance options.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: The aromatic foliage of Blue Moon Catmint is generally unappealing to deer and rabbits, reducing the risk of damage from these animals.
- Aromatic foliage: The leaves release a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed, adding an additional sensory experience to the garden.
- Long blooming period: This plant produces beautiful lavender-blue flowers over a long period, from late spring to early fall, providing extended visual interest.
- Ground cover: Due to its spreading habit, it can be used effectively as ground cover to suppress weeds and cover bare spots in the landscape.
- Easy to propagate: Blue Moon Catmint can be easily propagated by division or cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings or share with others.
- Ornamental appeal: With its attractive foliage and profusion of blooms, Blue Moon Catmint adds ornamental value to borders, rock gardens, and mixed perennial beds.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Catnip 'Blue Moon' can be used in potpourris for a subtle, relaxing fragrance. The dried leaves and flowers contribute an appealing aroma to any organic mixture.
- This plant can serve as a natural rodent repellent. Having Catnip 'Blue Moon' around can help discourage mice and rats in gardens without using chemicals.
- Catnip 'Blue Moon' can be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects such as lacewings and ladybugs, which help control pest populations.
- The plant can be incorporated into educational projects about pollinators. Children and students can observe bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that are attracted to the Catnip 'Blue Moon' flowers.
- Catnip 'Blue Moon' can be utilized as a natural dye for fabrics and yarn. The flowers and leaves can produce subtle shades of green or yellow when used in the dyeing process.
- It can be used to create a natural insect repellent sachet. Dried leaves and flowers can be placed in small pouches to repel insects in closets or drawers.
- The plant's aromatic leaves can be used to stuff cat toys. When filled with Catnip 'Blue Moon', these toys become irresistible to many cats.
- As a decorative element in flower arrangements for its delicate blue-violet flowers and textured foliage, adding both color and a rustic aesthetic to bouquets.
- Catnip 'Blue Moon' can serve as a cover crop for soil building in garden beds. It can help to suppress weeds and improve soil health during the off-season.
- The plant can be used in a sensory garden to provide both visual appeal and a unique tactile experience, with its soft, furry leaves.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Blue Moon Catmint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Blue Moon Catmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation: Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, is often associated with relaxation due to its mild sedative effects that can have a tranquilizing influence on humans and felines alike.
- Playfulness: The reaction of cats to catmint can induce a playful behavior, which symbolizes joy, fun, and the simplicity of pleasure.
- Affection: The plant's ability to attract cats may reflect a symbolic meaning related to affection and companionship, suggesting a bond or connection.
- Healing: Through its use in traditional medicine for its calming properties, catmint carries symbolic meanings connected to healing and soothing of ailments.
WaterFor the 'Blue Moon' Catmint, watering should be consistent, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Water the plant deeply, approximately once a week, providing about one inch of water which is roughly 0.6 gallons for a medium-sized plant. During the hot summer months or in particularly dry conditions, monitor soil moisture and water as needed to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Do not overwater, as 'Blue Moon' Catmint prefers drier conditions.
Light'Blue Moon' Catmint prefers full sun to light shade, thriving best with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this perennial is in a location where it can receive ample morning sunlight and some protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates. Ensure the plant is situated in a well-lit area that doesn't become overly shaded by nearby larger plants or structures.
Temperature'Blue Moon' Catmint is hardy in a wide range of temperatures, coping well with the cold down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimum temperature for prolific blooming and healthy growth is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. These perennials can handle summer heat up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but may require additional water if temperatures consistently exceed this range.
Pruning'Blue Moon' Catmint should be pruned to maintain its compact shape and to encourage a second bloom in late summer or early fall. After the first flush of flowers fades, trim the plant back by one-third to half its height. Prune these perennials annually in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant and to shape it as desired. The best time for pruning is after the threat of frost has passed but before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
Soil'Blue Moon' Catmint thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A soil mix of equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand makes an ideal medium for this plant to flourish, providing both drainage and nutrient retention.
Repotting'Blue Moon' Catmint should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the optimal time for repotting to allow the plant to acclimate and grow vigorously during the growing season.
Humidity & Misting'Blue Moon' Catmint is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations. This plant is quite hardy and adapts well to the ambient humidity found in most outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Blue Moon' Catmint in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny location with well-draining soil; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', commonly known as Catmint, begins its life cycle with seed germination in favorable conditions, which include well-drained soil and full to partial sun exposure. Once germinated, the seedlings grow into vegetative plants with characteristic gray-green foliage and a spreading habit. During spring and early summer, Catmint enters its flowering stage, producing small, tubular blue to violet flowers in dense clusters that are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into small, inconspicuous nutlets which contain the seeds for the next generation. As a perennial, Catmint will enter a period of dormancy in the late fall or winter, when the aboveground parts die back but the root system remains alive. Come the following spring, the plant will regrow from its rootstock, repeating the cycle of growth, flowering, and seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the 'Blue Moon' Catmint, Nepeta nervosa 'Blue Moon', is by division. This is typically done in either the spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Catmint and gently separate the root mass into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and some top growth. These divisions can then be replanted in well-drained soil, spaced approximately a foot apart to allow room for growth. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the new divisions.
