Japanese Catmint Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus = 'Yanim'
![catmint [Nimbus]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b6458265f7.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus, commonly known as catmint, is a perennial herb known for its attractive and aromatic features. The plant is characterized by its lush green foliage, which forms a dense, mounded shape. The leaves are heart-shaped with a slightly serrated edge, creating a textured look that adds visual interest to any garden setting. Catmint's most distinctive feature is its blossoms, which present themselves in spires of tubular flowers that can vary in color from soft purples to deep violet-blue hues. The blooms are clustered densely along the upright flower stalks, giving the impression of a hazy, colorful mist hovering above the greenery below. These flowers are particularly beloved by pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are often seen flitting about the plant. The overall appearance of catmint is one of a soft, undulating mass of greenery punctuated by colorful floral spikes. Its aroma, when the leaves are brushed or crushed, is minty and refreshing, contributing to the sensory appeal of the plant in any garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Japanese Catmint, Nimbus Catmint
Common names
Nepeta subsessilis.
ToxicityTo humans
Japanese Catmint (Nepeta subsessilis) is generally considered non-toxic to humans, and there are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning because it is not known to be harmful if ingested. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause adverse reactions, so it is advisable to treat unknown plants with caution.
To pets
Japanese Catmint (Nepeta subsessilis) is also non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. It is closely related to catnip and may actually have a stimulating effect on cats, which often enjoy the plant's scent and may nibble on it. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious toxicity is unlikely.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, produces attractive blue-purple flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator attraction: The blooms of Japanese Catmint are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Japanese Catmint can withstand periods of low water availability, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Low maintenance: This plant generally requires minimal care, such as occasional watering and trimming, to maintain its shape and promote flowering.
- Deer resistance: Japanese Catmint is not a preferred food source for deer, which makes it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Herbaceous perennial: As a perennial, it comes back each year, providing a long-term presence in the garden without the need for replanting annually.
- Fast growth: This plant is known for its rapid growth, allowing gardeners to quickly establish a lush appearance in their garden spaces.
- Easy propagation: Japanese Catmint can be easily propagated from cuttings or division, facilitating garden expansion or sharing with fellow gardeners.
- Soil adaptability: Japanese Catmint is adaptable to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta subsessilis, also known as Japanese Catmint, can be used as a natural pest deterrent in gardens, owing to its strong scent that repels certain insects.
- The leaves of Japanese Catmint can be infused in water to create a mildly aromatic spray for freshening up linens or rooms.
- The plant can be used in potpourri mixes to add fragrance to indoor spaces, leveraging its subtle minty aroma.
- Dried Japanese Catmint can serve as a filling for homemade eye pillows to help induce relaxation due to its soothing scent.
- Juvenile plants can be grown as ornamental additions to fairy gardens or miniature landscape projects due to their attractive foliage and stature.
- Japanese Catmint can be integrated into natural dye processes, as some plants can contribute to subtle coloration on fabrics.
- The stalks and dried seed heads can be utilized in floral arrangements, adding texture and interest to bouquets.
- Live Japanese Catmint plants can be utilized in sensory gardens to provide a tactile and aromatic experience for visitors.
- This plant can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of vegetables like tomatoes by attracting beneficial insects.
- Japanese Catmint, with its tall flowering stems, can be used as a natural border in landscaping designs, creating visually pleasing separations between garden areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese catmint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese catmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation - Just like the more commonly known catnip (a relative in the Nepeta genus), Nepeta subsessilis is believed to have soothing properties, which is why it symbolizes relaxation and peace.
- Happiness - The playful response cats exhibit to this plant's family members can be associated with joy, making Nepeta subsessilis a symbol of happiness.
- Affection - Given its association with felines who often are seen rubbing against these plants, it has come to symbolize love and affection in the plant language.
WaterFor the Japanese Catmint (Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus = 'Yanim'), water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Each watering session should consist of about one gallon of water, which allows moisture to penetrate deep into the root zone. Cut back on watering during the cooler months to prevent overwatering. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid over-saturation.
LightThe Japanese Catmint thrives best in full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of sunlight daily. It should be placed in a location where it can benefit from bright, indirect light for the remainder of the day. Avoid deep shade locations, as insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureJapanese Catmint prefers temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth. While it can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to freezing conditions. The plant is hardy and can also withstand summer highs up to 90°F, but it is crucial to provide adequate watering during hotter temperatures.
PruningPruning Japanese Catmint encourages bushier growth and more vigorous blooms. Trim the plant back in early spring before new growth begins, and again after the first flush of flowers fades to promote a second bloom. Pruning is typically done once or twice a year, with the best time for the second pruning being mid-summer, after the initial flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Japanese Catmint 'Yanin' is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand would be ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingJapanese Catmint 'Yanin' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container. This helps to refresh the soil and provide room for root growth.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Catmint 'Yanin' prefers average to high humidity levels but is adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It thrives best when the air isn't too dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation for Japanese Catmint 'Yanin'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil for Japanese Catmint 'Yanin'.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleJapanese Catmint (Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus = 'Yanim') starts its life cycle from seeds, which germinate in moist, well-drained soil typically in spring after the last frost. The seedlings emerge and develop into young plants with characteristic heart-shaped, serrated leaves. As the plants mature, they produce sturdy stems that eventually bear dense whorls of lavender-blue flowers, typically blooming from early to late summer. After pollination by insects, particularly attracted to the minty fragrance, the flowers set seed that can be dispersed for reproduction. When the growing season concludes, Japanese Catmint becomes dormant with the onset of autumn and winter, dying back to the ground in areas with colder climates. The plant can then regenerate from its root system in the following spring, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Nepeta subsessilis Nimbus, more commonly known as Catmint 'Yanim', is through stem cuttings. This is best done in the spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and make a cut about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and plant the cutting in a moist potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the tender cuttings. With regular watering and maintenance, roots should develop within a few weeks, and the new Catmint plants can be transplanted to their permanent locations.
