Giant Catmint Nepeta grandiflora
ABOUT
Nepeta grandiflora, commonly known as Giant Catmint or Caucasus Catmint, is a herbaceous perennial plant known for its striking appearance and aromatic qualities. It has a robust clump-forming habit with branching stems that give it a lush, full look. The foliage of this plant is comprised of green to gray-green leaves, often heart-shaped or lanceolate with a slightly scalloped or serrated edge, giving them a textured appearance. One of the most distinctive features of Giant Catmint is its flowers. The blooms are typically large, tubular, and present in various shades of blue, lavender, or violet, which stand out against the greenery. These flowers are produced in dense whorls that form elongated flower spikes, providing a prolific floral display that tends to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden. The stems of Giant Catmint are square-shaped, characteristic of plants in the mint family, and the plant generally has a fine, somewhat fuzzy texture on both the stems and leaves, contributing to its soft aesthetic. The leaves may also emit a pleasant, minty fragrance when crushed or brushed against, adding another sensory dimension to the plant's appeal. Overall, Giant Catmint boasts a combination of attractive foliage, showy flower spikes, and aromatic qualities, making it a favored choice for garden borders, rock gardens, or as a fragrant addition to walkways and outdoor living spaces – anywhere its beauty and scent can be enjoyed up close.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Giant Catmint, Caucasus Catmint
Common names
Nepeta sibirica, Glechoma grandiflora.
ToxicityTo humans
Giant Catmint (Nepeta grandiflora) is not commonly considered toxic to humans. These plants are often used in gardening for their attractive flowers and aroma. While it is usually safe, if any uneasiness or atypical symptoms occur after handling or ingesting the plant, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
To pets
Giant Catmint is generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. It is part of the mint family, and cats may even enjoy its minty scent, sometimes displaying a reaction similar to that elicited by catnip. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in significant quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, and in such cases, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Nepeta grandiflora, commonly known as Giant Catmint, adds beauty to gardens with its tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers and gray-green foliage.
- Attracts pollinators: The plant is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Giant Catmint is quite drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: The plant's strong scent and taste are generally unappealing to deer and rabbits, reducing the likelihood of grazing.
- Low maintenance: Giant Catmint requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Perennial growth: As a perennial, it returns year after year, providing long-term structure and color in the garden.
- Erosion control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes and banks.
Medical PropertiesUnfortunately, as of my last update, there is no well-documented evidence regarding the medical properties of Nepeta grandiflora, also known as Giant Catmint. Therefore, it can be stated that this plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta grandiflora, known as Giant Catmint, can be utilized in landscape design for xeriscaping, a landscaping approach that reduces the need for irrigation.
- In the culinary world, the leaves of Giant Catmint can be used to add a unique flavor to some specialty dishes, giving a subtle, mint-like zest.
- Dried Giant Catmint flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, contributing a pleasant fragrance to homemade potpourri.
- The plant is often planted in gardens as a natural pest repellent, as its strong scent is anathema to many garden pests and insects.
- Giant Catmint can be used in cut flower arrangements for its attractive spikes of violet-blue flowers, adding height and color to floral displays.
- The robust aroma of Giant Catmint can serve as a natural rodent deterrent, helping protect storage spaces such as garages and sheds.
- Fiber from the stems of Nepeta grandiflora can be used in traditional crafting for making small woven or braided items.
- Beekeepers sometimes plant Giant Catmint near hives to promote nectar production and support the local bee population.
- The essential oils derived from Giant Catmint can be used in the production of natural soaps and candles for their distinctive scent.
- As a companion plant in the vegetable garden, Giant Catmint attracts beneficial insects that prey on common vegetable pests.
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 grandiflora, commonly known as Giant Catmint, is related to the Catnip plant, which is famous for its soothing effect on cats. This association extends to a symbolic meaning for humans as well, suggesting calmness and stress relief.
- Happiness: Catmint flowers are often associated with cheerfulness, possibly due to their bright appearance and the joy they can induce in felines.
- Playfulness: Given its effects on cats, Giant Catmint symbolizes a sense of playfulness and an invitation to let one’s guard down and embrace a light-hearted attitude.
- Healing: Historically, Catmint has been used in herbal remedies, thus symbolizing healing and the soothing of physical or emotional discomfort.
WaterGiant Catmint requires regular watering to establish a deep root system, especially during its first growing season. Once established, it is drought tolerant and will need less frequent watering. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which may be about once a week depending on the climate and weather conditions. Apply approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot each time you water, ensuring even distribution around the plant's base. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf and stem diseases; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for the best results.
LightGiant Catmint thrives in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting Giant Catmint would be in an area that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, if possible, to prevent scorching. If full sun exposure is not possible, it can also tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.
TemperatureGiant Catmint prefers temperate climates and performs best when nighttime temperatures are between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit and daytime temperatures range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer from frost damage below that point. The plant is hardy and can endure maximum temperatures up to about 85 degrees Fahrenheit without significant stress.
PruningPruning Giant Catmint encourages bushier growth and more frequent blooming. Prune back the foliage by a third after the initial flowering to promote a second bloom cycle. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done again in mid to late summer if necessary to remove spent flowers and to maintain the desired shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGiant Catmint (Nepeta grandiflora) thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The best soil mix can be created by combining two parts garden soil, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part compost to provide nutrients and improve drainage.
RepottingGiant Catmint should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot in early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingGiant Catmint prefers moderate to low humidity conditions and is quite drought-tolerant, making it well-suited for a variety of outdoor environments rather than high-humidity indoor settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Giant Catmint in a sunny spot; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; well-draining soil is essential.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta grandiflora, commonly known as Giant Catmint, begins its life as a seed, often sown after the danger of frost has passed in fertile, well-drained soil. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself with a small rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy stem and a bushy growth form, with heart-shaped, fragrant leaves and tall flower spikes adorned with deep blue or violet blooms. The flowering stage occurs in late spring or early summer, attracting bees and butterflies for pollination. After pollination, seeds form and eventually disperse, either by wind or with the help of animals, to begin the cycle anew. During the winter, Giant Catmint may die back, especially in colder climates, but it can regenerate from its root system when the weather warms up again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: Nepeta grandiflora, commonly known as 'Giant Catmint', is a perennial herbaceous plant that is often propagated through stem cuttings, particularly in the spring or early summer when new growth is most vigorous. To propagate Giant Catmint by stem cuttings, one would typically cut a 4 to 6 inch (about 10 to 15 cm) section of the stem that includes several sets of leaves. It's important to make a clean cut just below a leaf node, as this is where roots are more likely to develop. The lower leaves are then stripped, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not soggy, and in a warm place with indirect sunlight. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted to a permanent location in the garden.
