The Botanical Diary
C
Flowers

Catmint

Nepeta × faassenii
Also known ascatmint, catnip

Induces euphoria in cats — hence the plant's name

Regions
all regions
Colour
Ніжно-ліловий
Catmint (catmint, catnip)
🌸
Bloom
June–September
☀️
Light
Full sun / напівтінь
💧
Watering
Low
📏
Height
0,3–0,5 m
❄️
Hardiness
Zone 4

Catmint Faassen is a true treasure for those seeking an undemanding yet remarkably ornamental plant. This hybrid originates from crossing several Nepeta species and was first described in the Netherlands at the beginning of the twentieth century. Since then, it has won the hearts of gardeners worldwide through its reliability and generous flowering.

The plant creates an impression of lightness and airiness, appearing to diffuse through the air with thousands of delicate lilac-tinged flowers. They unfurl from June and continue to delight until the first frosts. The foliage is soft, fragrant, and greyish—touching it by chance, you will immediately detect a pleasant minty aroma. Several cultivars exist with different flower shades: from pure lilac to pale pink, and even white forms. Every gardener will find one that harmonises perfectly with their garden scheme.

In the garden, catmint is a universal helper. It works wonderfully in mixed borders, creating a light haze between taller plants, is excellent in rock gardens and containers, and its flowering attracts countless butterflies and bees. If a cat visits near your home, a gift for it is guaranteed—nepetas truly induce genuine euphoria in them. Interestingly, the flowers are not afraid of drought, so even in hot years the plant remains attractive without constant watering.

Gardeners often turn to this plant when they need something beautiful and steadfast that will not demand daily attention. Catmint Faassen is the answer to that call. It simply grows, simply flowers, simply brings joy.

Location & soil

Catmint — planting & location

LightFull sun / напівтінь
Soil typewell-drained, light
Planting timeApril або September
Plant spacing0,3–0,4 m
Planting depth8–10 см

Bee-friendly, repels pests, drought-tolerant

Water needs

How to water Catmint

IntensityLow
FrequencyEvery 14 days (в)
Volume5–7
MethodAt the base

Do not overwater

Annual care

Fertilizing and pruning: Catmint

Spring fertilizingMineral complex fertiliser (April)
Summer fertilizingNo feeding required
Autumn fertilizingNo feeding required
Pruning timeПісля першого цвітіння (до 10 см)
Pruning typeРадикальна після цвітіння

Cut back to 10 cm to encourage new growth

Cold hardiness

Catmint — winter hardiness & care

Hardiness zoneZone 4
Winter coverWinter protection not required
Cover timing
Plant protection

Diseases and pests of Catmint

Garden design

What grows well with Catmint?

Lavender, Iris, Rose