Perennial of the Month-- July 2001
Common name: Nepeta, Catmint
Family: Lamiaceae, Mint
Height x Width: 24-36" x 24"
Growth Rate: moderate to fast
Foliage: opposite, silvery gray, oblong-ovate to lanceolate, coarsely toothed margins, to 4 inches long; square stems
Flowers: salmon pink (species is lavender) in spikes, early summer and may rebloom if cut back
Hardiness: zones 5-7, sometimes in 4
Soil: well drained
Light: full sun- needs afternoon shade in the Deep South
Pests & Problems: CATS! I have trouble growing catmints- the cats find it and devour it no matter where I try to hide it--but this cultivar may be less attractive (?).
Landscape Habit, Uses: front of the border, massed, has a nice mounded shape in areas with a low cat population; combine with blue sedge in front, purple coneflower or pink bee balm behind.
Other Interest: new color and introduction, species native to eastern Europe; common name for affinity with cats, genus name from ancient name used by Pliny for Nepi, Italy
Other Culture: easy to grow, shear back several inches after bloom to promote possible rebloom
Propagation: seed, division, and terminal cuttings in spring.
Sources:
Niche Gardens, Shady Oaks, other specialty and complete perennial
mail order and nurseries