Catmint Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic' (PBR)
ABOUT
'Summer Magic' is a cultivar boasting distinctive features that draw gardeners to this charming plant. It is known for its aromatic foliage, which releases a pleasant fragrance when brushed against. The leaves are typically green with a soft, fuzzy texture that is quite enjoyable to the touch. During the blooming period, the plant showcases striking flowers that have a tubular shape and are often described as resembling tiny, delicate trumpets. The blossoms tend to be arranged in whorls that circle the stem, creating an eye-catching pattern. The color of the flowers is one of its most captivating attributes, with a range of purples and lavenders that add a splash of cool tones to the garden palette. These floral hues are particularly sought after for creating a soothing and tranquil garden atmosphere. The contrast between the vibrant flowers and the verdant foliage makes 'Summer Magic' a standout among other garden plants. As it is a cultivar designed for ornamental use, its vibrant blooms and fragrant leaves are the main attributes that define its aesthetic appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Giant Catmint, Caucasus Catmint, Large-Flowered Catmint
Common names
Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Catmint is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this plant as it is commonly grown in gardens and used in herbal medicine without significant reports of adverse effects from consumption.
To pets
Catmint is also known to be non-toxic to pets. In cats, it can act as a mild stimulant due to its nepetalactone content, which can cause temporary behavioural changes such as increased playfulness or relaxation. However, these effects are not harmful and do not equate to poisoning. There are no severe toxic consequences associated with pets ingesting this plant.
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: It lures bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which assist in pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has good drought resistance, requiring minimal watering.
- Long Blooming Season: Offers an extended display of flowers, typically from early summer to early fall.
- Low Maintenance: The plant does not require frequent care, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Rabbit and Deer Resistance: Its natural properties tend to repel rabbits and deer, protecting your garden from browsing.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves emit a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed, adding sensory appeal to the garden.
- Landscape Versatility: Works well in a variety of garden settings such as borders, herb gardens, and rockeries.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cat attractant: Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic', commonly known as catmint, can be used to attract cats to a specific area of the garden or to a cat toy.
- Natural pest repellent: When planted in a garden, catmint can deter certain insects, such as aphids and squash bugs, potentially protecting other plants.
- Companion planting: Catmint can be planted alongside vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers to help deter pests naturally without the use of chemicals.
- Fairy gardens: Due to its attractive, compact growth form, catmint 'Summer Magic' can be used to create whimsical fairy gardens.
- Photography: The vibrant blue flowers of catmint make it an excellent subject for botanical photography and garden portfolios.
- Educational use: The plant can be used in educational settings such as schools to teach children about pollinators, as it is a favorite among bees and butterflies.
- Decorative drying: The flowers and foliage of catmint can be dried and used in decorative arrangements or craft projects.
- Plant dye: The leaves and flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper products.
- Culinary decoration: Edible flowers from catmint may be used to garnish or add a subtle flavor to certain dishes and beverages.
- Creative writing inspiration: The lush growth and vivid colors of 'Summer Magic' catmint may serve as inspiration for poets and writers in their creative works.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Catmint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Catmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation: Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, exudes a soothing fragrance that is believed to have relaxing and calming effects, similar to its impact on cats.
- Affection: In the language of flowers, catmint can symbolize feelings of affection, often linked to its allure for felines who exhibit warmth and affection when near the plant.
- Playfulness: The playful behavior that cats display around catmint can imbue the plant with a sense of fun and whimsy, representing a light-hearted and joyful attitude.
- Healing: Historically, catmint has been used in herbal remedies for various ailments, which has led to it being associated with healing and restorative properties.
WaterCatmint should be watered deeply but infrequently, encouraging strong root growth by allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, watering once a week with one to two gallons per adult plant is sufficient, although this may need to be adjusted based on climate and soil conditions. During particularly hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to prevent stress. In cooler, wetter conditions, reduce the amount to prevent waterlogging, which catmint does not tolerate well. Ensure that the water is directed at the soil level rather than over the foliage to reduce the risk of disease.
LightCatmint thrives best in full sun to light shade, where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. The ideal spot for planting catmint would be in a garden area that gets ample morning sunlight and some protection from intense afternoon heat, although it is quite adaptable to various light conditions.
TemperatureCatmint prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a temperature range from about 30 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperatures for catmint would be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is hardy and can survive light frosts, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant.
PruningPruning catmint is important to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. It should be pruned back hard in early spring before new growth starts and again after the first flush of flowers fades, which is often midsummer, to promote a second bloom. Deadheading spent flowers during the season can also improve appearance and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Catmint, a well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal. The best mix might consist of two parts garden soil, one part coarse sand or perlite, and one part compost or aged manure. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCatmint, including Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic', should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingCatmint prefers average to low humidity conditions; it does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot, ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, water when dry.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic', commonly known as Large-Flowered Catnip, begins its life cycle as a seed, often germinating in spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable. Seedlings emerge, developing into vegetative plants that form a mound of aromatic foliage, typically reaching full size in one growing season. The plant enters the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, producing tall spikes of trumpet-shaped, lavender-blue flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies. After pollination, flowers give way to seed pods that mature and release seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. The plant is perennial, with the above-ground structures dying back to the ground in winter in colder climates, while the root system remains dormant until conditions are favorable for new growth in the following spring. This cycle repeats annually as the plant persists and potentially spreads in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Nepeta grandiflora 'Summer Magic', commonly referred to as catmint, can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, typically during the plant's active growth period in spring and early summer. To propagate by cuttings, gardeners should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece about 4-6 inches (10-15 centimeters) long, just below a node. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. This cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand, ensuring the nodes where the leaves were removed are below the surface. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright spot but out of direct sun, and kept moist until new growth indicates that rooting has occurred. This method is popular for its simplicity and effectiveness, allowing gardeners to produce new plants that are true to the parent's characteristics.
