Catmint Nepeta racemosa
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as catmint features a lush, spreading mound of aromatic foliage. The leaves of this herbaceous perennial are small, ovate to heart-shaped, with a subtly scalloped edge and a soft, gray-green hue. These leaves are often covered in a fine fuzz that gives them a slightly velvety texture. When crushed or bruised, they release a pleasant, minty fragrance that is characteristic of this plant and attractive to cats, hence its name. Throughout the blooming season, catmint produces an abundant display of tiny, tubular flowers that cluster together in dense spikes at the tips of the stems. These blooms typically showcase a delicate lavender-blue color, though they can also be found in shades of white or pink, inviting a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. The flowers stand out against the greyish-green foliage, creating a cool and tranquil visual effect. The plant's overall form is somewhat informal, with stems that may cascade or spread to create a soft, mounded shape, giving it a relaxed and naturalistic appearance that can blend seamlessly into a variety of garden styles.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Dwarf Catnip, Raceme Catmint, Persian Catmint, Little Titch.
Common names
Glechoma racemosa, Nepeta racemosa var. nuda, Nepeta mussinii, Nepeta mussini, Nepeta racemosa subsp. racemosa, Nepeta subsessilis.
ToxicityTo humans
Catmint (Nepeta racemosa) is generally not considered toxic to humans. Ingestion of this plant typically does not lead to poisoning or adverse health effects. It is commonly used in gardens and is also known for its aromatic leaves which are sometimes utilized in herbal teas. However, as with many plants, individual allergies or sensitivities could exist, so it is advisable to handle plants with care if you are uncertain about your reactions.
To pets
Catmint (Nepeta racemosa) is known to be non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. In fact, it is closely related to catnip and can cause a similar, but usually milder, euphoric reaction in cats. Ingesting the plant is not likely to result in poisoning or serious health issues; however, excessive consumption could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Gray-green
Flower color
Lavender-blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as Catmint, is valued for its lavender-blue flower spikes that contribute color and texture to garden landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Catmint is highly tolerant of drought conditions, making it a low-maintenance choice for water-conserving gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Catmint attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Catmint is generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, helping to preserve garden plants.
- Herbal Uses: The aromatic leaves of Catmint can be used in teas and as a culinary herb, though it is less intense than true mint species.
- Easy to Grow: Catmint is an undemanding plant that grows well in a variety of soils and can easily be propagated by division.
- Long Blooming Period: With a prolonged blooming season, Catmint provides extended visual interest from late spring to early fall.
- Erosion Control: Catmint's dense growth habit and sturdy root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Companion Planting: Its ability to repel certain insects makes Catmint a good companion plant in vegetable gardens and ornamental beds.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, Catmint is an ideal plant for both novice gardeners and those with little time for upkeep.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Sometimes used in herbal medicine to relieve muscle spasms or cramps.
- Carminative: May help in relieving flatulence or prevent gas formation.
- Diaphoretic: Can induce sweating and is possibly used to reduce fever.
- Astringent: Might be used to contract skin cells and other body tissues.
- Antiseptic: Contains compounds that could have mild antiseptic properties.
- Aromatic: The essential oils from the plant may have soothing effects and used for aromatherapy.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as catmint, can be used as a natural insect repellent when its leaves are crushed and rubbed on the skin to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- In the garden, catmint can be planted as a companion plant to deter pests from vegetables and fruit plants due to its strong scent.
- The dried leaves of catmint can be used to stuff into cat toys, providing entertainment and stimulation for domestic cats.
- Catmint can be used as an ornamental plant to create borders or edges in gardens due to its compact and bushy growth habit.
- The flowers of Nepeta racemosa can be used in floral arrangements to add a delicate, lavender-like touch to bouquets and decorations.
- Catmint plants can be used for erosion control in garden slopes or areas prone to soil degradation due to its root system that binds the soil effectively.
- The silvery-green foliage of catmint can provide an attractive foliage contrast in mixed perennial borders or rock gardens.
- During the blooming season, catmint attracts beneficial pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden for improved pollination of nearby plants.
- Catmint can be used in sensory gardens where the texture and fragrance of the plants can be appreciated by visitors seeking a multi-sensory experience.
- Gardeners sometimes use the sprawling nature of catmint to cover unsightly areas of the yard or to cascade over walls and containers for a decorative effect.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as Catmint, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCatmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation - Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as Catmint, often symbolizes relaxation due to its calming effect on cats, which is mirrored in humans as a stress-reliever in gardens and landscaping.
- Playfulness - The plant is associated with playfulness because of the way cats react to it; they often exhibit joyful and exuberant behavior when near Catmint.
- Affection - Catmint can symbolize affection, stemming from the affectionate behavior cats display when they encounter the plant.
- Unpredictability - Given Catmint's effect on cats, leading to spontaneous and erratic behavior, it can symbolize the unexpected or unpredictable elements of life.
WaterCatmint should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to reach the plant's root system. During the growing season, watering once every week with approximately one inch of water should suffice, but always check the soil moisture before watering—catmint prefers slightly dry conditions. In hotter, drier climates, you might need to water more frequently, while in cooler or more humid areas, less often. It's important to avoid overwatering, as catmint is drought-tolerant and too much moisture can lead to root rot.
LightCatmint thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to flourish and produce its characteristic flowers. It can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, but its flowering may be less prolific. The ideal spot for catmint is in an area where it will receive ample morning sunlight and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, which can sometimes be too harsh.
TemperatureCatmint is a hardy perennial that can tolerate a wide temperature range, making it a resilient choice for many gardens. It grows best in temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growth occurs in the cooler end of its temperature range, avoiding the extreme heat which can sometimes cause the plant to become leggy or wilt.
PruningPruning catmint is essential to maintain its shape, encourage a second bloom, and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Cut back the foliage by a third after the first flush of flowers dies back, usually in late spring or early summer. This will stimulate new growth and promote a second round of blooms. Pruning can be done again in late fall or early spring to tidy up the plant and prepare it for new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCatmint prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of garden soil, peat, perlite, and compost in equal parts makes an ideal soil mix for catmint to thrive. Ensure it's light and not too rich to mimic its preferred growing conditions.
RepottingCatmint does not require frequent repotting and can often be left for several years before needing to be moved to a larger container. Repotting every 3-4 years is usually sufficient, allowing for fresh soil and room to grow.
Humidity & MistingCatmint is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor humidity conditions. It does not have specific humidity needs, making it relatively easy to care for in terms of moisture in the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place catmint in sunny spot, water sparingly, ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, with good drainage, and space plants apart.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta racemosa, commonly known as catmint, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring after experiencing the cold stratification of winter. Emerging seedlings establish a root system and produce small, herbaceous growth before entering a vegetative stage, where leaves and stems rapidly expand to form a compact, flowering plant. Flowers, characterized by their lavender-blue hues, bloom in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, flowers produce seeds that mature by late summer, which then are dispersed by wind or animal activity to propagate the next generation. In fall, with the arrival of cooler temperatures, catmint plants often die back to the ground in colder climates, entering a period of dormancy. Catmint is a perennial herb, allowing it to regrow from its rootstock when favorable conditions return in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as catmint, is by division. This method is usually performed in the spring or early fall. Propagation by division involves digging up an existing plant, gently separating it into smaller clumps while ensuring that each section has a portion of roots attached, and then replanting the new divisions at the same depth they were growing originally. It's important to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method allows gardeners to quickly and effectively increase their stock of catmint plants while maintaining the traits of the parent plant.
