Japanese Catmint Nepeta subsessilis
ABOUT
Commonly known as Japanese Catmint, this perennial plant is recognized for its striking floral display and lush foliage. The leaves are heart-shaped with a subtly serrated edge, presenting a fresh green hue. As the growing season progresses, the plant produces sturdy, upright stems that bear clusters of vivid blue to violet flowers. Each flower is tubular and spotted with delicate markings, which are particularly attractive to bees and butterflies. The blossoms are arranged in dense whorls, creating a showy effect that adds color and texture to gardens. The plant emits a pleasant, minty fragrance when touched, which is both enjoyable to garden visitors and effective in deterring pests. The overall impression of Japanese Catmint is one of a robust and ornamental herbaceous plant that brings life and vibrancy to the spaces it inhabits.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Catmint, Short-stalked Nepeta, Subsessilis Catmint.
Common names
Nepeta subsessilis
ToxicityTo humans
Nepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, is not widely known to be toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to refrain from ingesting plants unless they are known to be safe. While Japanese Catmint doesn't typically pose a risk of poisoning, if any part of the plant is accidentally ingested and symptoms develop, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.
To pets
Nepeta subsessilis, or Japanese Catmint, is generally considered safe for pets, especially cats. In fact, catmint can act as a mild stimulant for cats, similar to catnip. However, excessive ingestion can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet shows any signs of illness after ingesting this plant, please consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Nepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are vital for pollination in gardens.
- Drought tolerance: Japanese Catmint is relatively drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardens and xeriscaping.
- Low maintenance: This plant typically requires little care once established, making it a convenient option for gardeners seeking low-maintenance landscaping solutions.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its lush foliage and spikes of purple or blue flowers, Japanese Catmint adds a splash of color and texture to garden beds and borders.
- Deer resistance: The plant is often resistant to deer grazing, which can be particularly beneficial in areas where deer predation is a problem for gardens.
- Aromatic foliage: The leaves of Japanese Catmint release a pleasant fragrance when crushed or brushed against, offering an additional sensory experience in the garden.
- Ground cover: Due to its growth habit, it can be used effectively as a ground cover to suppress weeds and cover bare soil.
- Erosion control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and embankments.
- Companion planting: Japanese Catmint can be paired with various other plants to create mutually beneficial arrangements in the garden.
- Landscape design versatility: The plant's attractive features and growth characteristics make it a versatile choice for a variety of landscape design themes and styles.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Nepeta subsessilis may have compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antimicrobial: Extracts from the plant are thought to possess properties that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Diuretic effects: Traditional use suggests that it may promote the discharge of urine, therefore increasing urine production.
- Analgesic properties: It is believed to have pain-relieving effects, potentially reducing discomfort caused by various conditions.
- Sedative actions: The plant might have a calming effect and could be used to help with relaxation and sleep disorders.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens, keeping away unwanted insects without harmful chemicals.
- The plant has been integrated into companion planting strategies, to benefit vegetables like tomatoes and peppers by repelling pests that could harm them.
- Japanese Catmint's striking blue flowers can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and yarns.
- As an ornamental addition to rain gardens, it helps in managing water runoff while adding aesthetic appeal.
- Landscape designers often use Japanese Catmint for its growth habit and color, to add texture to garden borders and flower beds.
- Japanese Catmint can be dried and used in potpourri to impart a fresh, minty fragrance to rooms.
- The dried leaves can be incorporated into homemade sachets, which can be placed in closets and drawers as a natural moth repellent.
- Its vigorous growth can be beneficial for erosion control on slopes or areas where soil retention is needed.
- Gardeners may use clippings of Japanese Catmint as a natural mulch, which decomposes and enriches the soil over time.
- The plant can serve as an indicator species for overwatering, as it tends to wilt when provided with excessive water, helping gardeners adjust irrigation practices.
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: Commonly known as Japanese Catmint, Nepeta subsessilis is related to the catnip plant, which is known for its calming effect on cats. This association extends to symbolizing relaxation and peace for humans.
- Playfulness: Like catnip, which can induce a playful state in felines, Japanese Catmint can represent playfulness and enjoyment.
- Cat-Friendly Environment: Gardeners might use Japanese Catmint as a symbol of creating a cat-friendly space, inviting the playful and curious nature of cats into their garden.
- Attraction: Due to its ability to attract cats, the plant can symbolize attraction and allure, not just for felines but also in a broader, metaphorical sense.
- Healing: Nepeta subsessilis has been used in traditional remedies, and it can symbolize healing and the soothing of ailments.
WaterJapanese Catmint should be watered regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Typically, watering once every week with approximately one gallon of water per plant is ideal, though this may vary depending on local climate conditions and soil type. It's essential to water the plant at its base, keeping the foliage dry to prevent disease. During hotter, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary to prevent wilting. If the soil is still moist from the previous watering, wait until the top inch feels dry before watering again.
LightJapanese Catmint thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is a location where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, it is tolerant of some afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates where intense midday sun can be overwhelming for many plants.
TemperatureJapanese Catmint prefers moderate temperatures and grows well in USDA zones 4 through 8. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -30°F but may suffer if the temperature rises above 90°F for extended periods. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningPruning Japanese Catmint helps to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. It is best to prune in early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the previous year's growth by about one-third. Additionally, after the first flush of flowers fade, you can prune lightly to promote a second bloom period. Regular deadheading during the blooming season will also keep the plants looking tidy and may extend the flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJapanese Catmint thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. A good mix could be one part garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite. This combination ensures adequate drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH, which suits the needs of Japanese Catmint.
RepottingJapanese Catmint should typically be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The best time to repot is in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Catmint prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity conditions typical of most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with occasional sun.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with some afternoon shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in soil with adequate moisture; they typically germinate within a few weeks under the right temperature conditions. After germination, seedlings emerge and establish themselves with a root system and simple leaves, growing into juvenile plants. This perennial then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it develops a robust foliage of heart-shaped, serrated leaves and begins to form sturdy stems. In late spring to early summer, Japanese Catmint transitions to the reproductive phase, producing tall spires of violet-blue flowers that are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. After pollination, which is often aided by these visiting insects, the flowers develop into small nutlets that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of senescence in late autumn, with aerial parts dying back, while the rootstock survives the winter to regrow in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Nepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese Catmint, is through seed. To propagate Japanese Catmint from seed, the best time is in spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil at a depth of about 1/4 inch (roughly 6 millimeters). They require light to germinate, so it's essential not to cover them too deeply. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs, which typically takes between 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have developed and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or their final position in the garden. It's important to ensure they are placed in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
