Catmint Nepeta 'Florina'
ABOUT
Nepeta 'Florina', commonly referred to as catmint, displays a picturesque appearance characterized by its lush, aromatic foliage and charming flower spikes. The leaves of this perennial plant exude a soft, green hue, typically grayish-green, and possess a slightly fuzzy, soft texture that invites touch. The foliage is often finely textured with a heart-shaped base, and the edges can be either smooth or subtly serrated. The real allure of Nepeta 'Florina' lies in its delightful blooms. The plant produces an abundance of small, trumpet-shaped flowers, which form dense clusters atop slender, upright stems. These flowers are a soft lavender to violet blue in color and present a striking contrast to the foliage. They bloom profusely, forming a cloud of color that can be a visual feast for the eyes. Additionally, these blooms release a pleasant fragrance that can attract an array of beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, adding a dynamic and lively element to the garden space. During the blooming period, the plant becomes a hub of activity, contributing to the ecosystem while also providing sensory pleasure for any onlooker or passerby. Overall, Nepeta 'Florina' is cherished for its decorative appearance and has the added benefit of being a durable and low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Its aesthetic qualities make it an exceptional candidate for borders, beds, and as a complement to other plants within a landscape design.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Florina Catmint.
Common names
Nepeta 'Florina'.
ToxicityTo humans
Catmint is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Therefore, accidental ingestion is unlikely to cause serious symptoms or consequences. Nonetheless, consumption in large amounts could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but this is not common.
To pets
Catmint is not toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. In fact, the plant can act as a mild stimulant for cats. However, overconsumption might result in mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, particularly in pets not accustomed to ingesting this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (61 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Nepeta 'Florina', commonly known as catmint, is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Drought-tolerant: Catmint is a hardy plant that can survive in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening.
- Low maintenance: Catmint requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: The plant's natural aroma is usually unappealing to deer and rabbits, reducing the likelihood of damage from these animals.
- Easy to grow: Catmint is a hardy perennial that can thrive in a range of soil types and garden conditions.
- Fragrant foliage: The leaves of catmint release a pleasant fragrance, especially when brushed against, adding a sensory aspect to the garden experience.
- Long blooming period: Catmint flowers for an extended period from late spring to early fall, providing a consistent source of beauty in the landscape.
- Ground cover: Its spreading habit makes it a good choice for ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and cover bare spots in the garden.
- Decorative flowers: With its spikes of lavender to blue flowers, catmint adds a splash of color and aesthetic appeal to garden spaces.
- Companion planting: Catmint can be used in companion planting as it is believed to help deter certain pests from more sensitive plants in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta 'Florina', commonly known as catmint, can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens as some of its compounds can deter insects and animals.
- As a companion plant, catmint can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which aid in pollination of surrounding plants.
- Catmint can be utilized as a border plant due to its neat growth habit, providing a decorative edge to garden pathways or beds.
- The dried leaves of catmint can be used to create fragrant sachets for wardrobes and drawers, providing a gentle, calming aroma.
- It can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for its scent and decorative flowers, contributing to an attractive and natural home fragrance option.
- The plant can also be used in the creation of natural dye, where the leaves produce subtle green and yellow hues.
- The intense aroma of catmint can also be used to mask unpleasant odors in compost bins or outdoor waste collection areas.
- When planted around chicken coops, catmint may help to repel certain pests that can bother poultry.
- Catmint can be used to craft natural-themed decor, such as wreaths or garlands, especially when its blooms are at their peak.
- The stems of catmint can be included in cut flower arrangements as a filler, adding both texture and a light, pleasing scent to bouquets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCatmint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCatmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation - Nepeta 'Florina', commonly known as Catmint, is often associated with its relaxing and soothing properties, as it is known to have a mild sedative effect on cats and sometimes even on humans.
- Affection - The way cats are drawn to and enjoy rolling in Catmint can symbolize affection and the joy of comfort, making it a symbol of playful relationships and tender care.
- Homeliness - Catmint is commonly used in gardens and around homes, symbolizing the creation of a welcoming and comfortable space, much like the sentiment of hospitality and warmth toward others.
- Playfulness - The effect this plant has on cats, inducing a state of euphoria, can also symbolize playfulness and light-heartedness, reminding us to embrace joy in our lives.
- Healing - As Catmint has historically been used in herbal remedies for ailments such as fever, anxiety, and inflammation, it can symbolize healing and the nurturing of one's health.
WaterCatmint Nepeta 'Florina' should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which roughly translates to about half a gallon per plant, depending on the size and maturity. During peak summer heat, it may require more frequent watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent root rot. Overwatering can be detrimental, so adjust the amount and frequency based on the rainfall and temperature conditions.
LightCatmint Nepeta 'Florina' thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would be where it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. Partial shade is beneficial in areas with extremely hot summers, but too little light can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureCatmint Nepeta 'Florina' prefers a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F but can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F and as high as 85°F. These plants are quite hardy and can survive frost, although they perform best when not subjected to extreme heat or cold.
PruningPrune Catmint Nepeta 'Florina' to promote healthy growth, maintain shape, and encourage a second bloom. It’s best to prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth and again lightly after the first bloom to tidy the plant. Pruning can be done every few weeks during the growing season as needed to keep the plant compact.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCatmint 'Florina' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil mix would be a blend of garden soil, compost, and sharp sand to ensure proper drainage. Adding perlite can further enhance drainage and root aeration.
RepottingCatmint 'Florina' generally does not require frequent repotting; it should be done every two to three years to refresh the soil. Repot in the spring, just before the new growth starts.
Humidity & MistingCatmint 'Florina' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special conditions. Average room humidity is typically sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Catmint 'Florina' near a sunny window; ensure it gets plenty of light.
Outdoor
Plant Catmint 'Florina' in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta 'Florina', commonly known as catmint, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, well-drained soil and usually requires plenty of sunlight. Upon sprouting, the seedling develops into a young plant with characteristic fragrant foliage and a spreading habit. In the vegetative stage, the plant focus on growing leaves and stems, expanding its root system to absorb nutrients and water. As it enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, Nepeta 'Florina' produces small, lavender-blue flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules that disperse seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. This perennial plant then either dies back in the fall and regrows from its root structure in spring, or in milder climates, it may persist as semi-evergreen foliage throughout the winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Nepeta 'Florina', commonly known as catnip or catmint, is through stem cuttings. To propagate, one should take cuttings from the plant during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem with new growth and cut a piece approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, just below a node. Remove the lower leaves to expose a few inches of the stem, then dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining potting soil, and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in a warm area with indirect light. Roots typically develop in two to three weeks, at which point the plastic can be removed and the new catnip plant can eventually be transplanted outdoors.
