Kuban Catmint Nepeta kubanica dark form
ABOUT
Nepeta kubanica dark form, also known as catmint, is noted for its striking foliage and flowers. The plant displays deep green, heart-shaped leaves that have a slightly textured surface. These leaves often form a dense and lush backdrop for the exquisite blooms that emerge above them. The flowers of this catmint are particularly known for their rich, dark coloring, which contrasts beautifully against the green foliage. These blossoms are tubular and tend to grow in whorls around the stem, providing a tiered effect that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The flowers can give the impression of a soft, purple to violet hue with infusions of deeper tones, almost giving a velvety appearance at times. This dark form catmint is also favored for its long blooming period, during which it can become a hub for pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its color and fragrance. The overall appearance of Nepeta kubanica dark form is one of a robust, sprawling plant that provides a striking visual impact in any garden setting, with a natural and somewhat whimsical form that softens landscape lines while adding pops of deep color.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Kuban Catmint
Common names
Nepeta kubanica dark form.
ToxicityTo humans
Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, is generally not considered toxic to humans. In most cases, ingesting parts of the plant does not lead to any serious consequences, although it may cause mild stomach upset in some individuals.
To pets
Nepeta, commonly known as catmint, is not considered toxic to pets. It is known to be particularly attractive to cats, who may exhibit temporary behavioral changes such as increased playfulness, rolling around, or purring when interacting with the plant. However, ingestion of large quantities can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The deep purple to blue flowers of 'Catmint' provide a vibrant splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: This variety of Catmint is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Nepeta kubanica dark form is highly drought-resistant, making it a good choice for water-wise gardening.
- Low Maintenance: Catmint is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once it's settled in its location.
- Rabbit and Deer Resistance: The plant is often unappealing to rabbits and deer, sparing it from unwanted grazing and making it an ideal choice for areas with wildlife.
- Aromatic Foliage: Catmint has fragrant leaves that can release a pleasant aroma when brushed against, enhancing the sensory experience of a garden.
- Long Blooming Season: With the right care, Nepeta kubanica can bloom for an extended period, often from late spring to early autumn.
- Ground Cover Potential: Its mounding habit makes it an excellent ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and stabilize soil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cat Enrichment: Nepeta kubanica dark form, commonly known as catmint, can be used to create toys or beds for cats, as its scent is highly attractive and stimulating to them.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its deep violet flowers and dark foliage, this plant is often used to add contrast and depth in garden designs, borders, and flower arrangements.
- Natural Dye: The dark foliage and flowers of catmint can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or paper crafting.
- Erosion Control: Due to its hardy nature and ability to spread, catmint can be planted on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil.
- Companion Planting: Catmint can be planted alongside vegetable gardens to help repel certain pests, potentially reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
- Photography Prop: The striking dark flowers of the plant can be used by photographers as a captivating backdrop or feature in nature photography.
- Herbal Sachets: Dried catmint leaves and flowers can be put into sachets to give a pleasant fragrance to wardrobes and drawers.
- Educational Use: Horticulture programs may use catmint as an example plant to teach about herbaceous perennials and pollinator-friendly gardening practices.
- Crafting Botanical Prints: The distinctive leaves and flowers of catmint can be used in botanical printmaking, pressing, and other art projects.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly used in cooking, the flowers can serve as an edible garnish for salads or dessert plates, offering an unusual visual appeal.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nepeta is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nepeta is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation: Nepeta kubanica dark form, commonly known as Catmint, is often associated with relaxation due to its gentle, calming fragrance that is reminiscent of lavender. It is believed to have a soothing effect on people and pets alike.
- Playfulness: As Catmint is enticing to cats, often causing a playful behavior, it symbolizes joy, fun, and a sense of playfulness.
- Attraction: The plant represents attraction, not only because it attracts cats but also because it can attract beneficial insects to the garden, such as bees.
- Healing: Traditionally, Catmint has been used in herbal medicine for its mild sedative and antispasmodic properties, symbolizing healing and wellness.
- Home: Catmint is also symbolic of domesticity and creating a cozy, comfortable home environment, as cats are often associated with the home hearth.
WaterCatmint should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on environmental conditions. Water the plant slowly and deeply, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone. Provide about one inch of water, which corresponds to about 0.6 gallons per square foot of soil, each time you water. During hotter and drier periods, you may need to water more frequently, whereas in cooler or rainy conditions, you can water less often. It is important to avoid overwatering, as catmint prefers well-drained soil and does not like to sit in wet soil.
LightCatmint flourishes in full sun to partial shade, thriving best with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for catmint would be an area where it receives morning light and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun, especially in climates with hot summers. However, catmint is adaptable and can also tolerate more shade.
TemperatureCatmint is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, thriving best between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for growing in many climates. In hot areas, catmint appreciates some protection from the extreme heat, especially during midday.
PruningPruning catmint promotes bushier growth and more blooms. Prune back the plant by one-third in early spring to encourage strong new growth. After the first flush of flowering, cut the plant back by half to stimulate a second bloom period. The best time for pruning is after the last frost in spring and then again in midsummer after the initial flowers have faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCatmint prefers well-draining soil with a slight preference for alkalinity, so a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal. A mixture consisting of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand would ensure proper drainage and aeration. Amending with organic compost will provide necessary nutrients for the Nepeta kubanica dark form.
RepottingCatmint should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in its new pot before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingCatmint is tolerant of a range of humidity levels, but it does best in conditions that simulate its native habitat, which means moderate humidity. Avoid overly humid environments to prevent issues like fungal disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for indoor catmint growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleNepeta kubanica, commonly known as Catmint, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after stratification, germinates in the spring. As a young seedling, Catmint develops a root system and foliage through the vegetative growth phase. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators with its dark-hued blooms. After pollination, flowers develop into seed capsules, and as the season progresses, these capsules dry and release seeds, ensuring the next generation. In autumn, the above-ground parts of the plant die back with the onset of colder weather, although the root system may remain dormant and alive throughout the winter. Come the following spring, the plant may either regrow from the rootstock if it is a perennial variety or rely on the newly dispersed seeds to continue the cycle if it is an annual or biennial.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Nepeta kubanica, commonly known as Catmint, is through seed sowing. This can typically be done in spring after the danger of frost has passed. To propagate Catmint from seed, first, you need to prepare a well-draining seed starting mix and scatter the small seeds on top, pressing them lightly into the soil, but not covering them as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and place the container in a warm area with plenty of indirect sunlight. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into their final location in the garden.
