Nepeta govaniana
catmint
An upright, branching herbaceous perennial to around 90cm, with oval-shaped, aromatic, softly hairy leaves. Long, open spikes of pale, creamy-yellow flowers appear over a long period from July through to September
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Nepeta can be annuals or, more commonly, perennials, with paired, usually aromatic leaves, and terminal spikes or panicles of 2-lipped, tubular flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Pakistan to W Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any cool, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. May need support
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Gravel garden
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
Trim after flowering to keep plants compact and to encourage a second flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to leafhoppers
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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