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Herbaceous Perennial

Nepeta govaniana
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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 Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to the UK
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

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