Nepeta govaniana (Catmint)

Unlike any other catmints, Nepeta govaniana (Catmint) is an upright, branching herbaceous perennial noted for its open racemes of dainty, pale yellow flowers, 1 in. across (3 cm). Blooming from summer through fall, the unusual blossoms are borne in the axils of the aromatic, large, serrated, softly hairy leaves.

Unlike any other catmints, Nepeta govaniana (Catmint) is an upright, branching herbaceous perennial noted for its open racemes of dainty, pale yellow flowers, 1 in. across (3 cm). Blooming from summer through fall, the unusual blossoms are borne in the axils of the aromatic, large, serrated, softly hairy leaves. Wonderfully graceful, it enjoys a cool, damp place and can cope with shade.

  • Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm).  May need support
  • Performs best in any cool, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Drought tolerant.
  • A remarkably low-maintenance plant, this excellent performer is highly versatile and can be used in many situations: beds and borders, underplanting shrubs and roses, cottage gardens, gravel gardens, wildlife gardens. Nepeta is perfect for underplanting roses as the colors complement each other and the foliage hides the bare feet of the rose bushes.
  • Attracts butterflies but is ignored by deer.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for leafhoppers and powdery mildews.
  • Trim after flowering to keep plants compact and promote continued bloom.
  • Propagate by division in spring or autumn. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer.
  • Native to Kashmir.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 7

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Nepeta – Catmints
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 24″ (60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Drought
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage