Nepeta, commonly known as Catmint or Catnip, is a group of hardy perennial herbs widely used in garden borders, as ground cover, and even as a natural insect repellent. One of the best known cultivars is Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’, valued for its size, long flowering period, and drought tolerance.
If you are looking for a tough, low-maintenance plant that performs well in Australian conditions, Nepeta is well worth considering.
What is Nepeta?
Nepeta is a genus of flowering perennials with aromatic foliage and spikes of tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white.
- Soft grey-green to green foliage
- Long flowering season from spring through summer
- Naturally drought tolerant once established
- Attractive to pollinators, especially bees
It works well as a border plant, edging plant, or informal ground cover.
Catmint vs Catnip – What’s the Difference?
Not all Nepeta are true catnip, the real ‘Catnip’is the species N. cataria. These are an interesting plant, some cats just love it and will roll all over it and play with it. They are a perennial herb and are easy to grow. Not only useful to keep the cat amused but also a great garden plant as well..
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
- The “real” catnip plant
- White flowers
- Strong effect on cats
- More weedy in appearance
- Catmint (e.g. Nepeta mussinii, N. x faassenii)
- More ornamental
- Blue to purple flowers
- Better suited to garden design
- Mild or no effect on cats
If you are planting for the garden, catmint varieties such as ‘Six Hills Giant’ or ‘Walker’s Low’ are usually the better choice.
Popular Nepeta Varieties
A number of species and cultivars are well suited to Australian gardens:
- Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’ – Taller, vigorous, excellent for borders
- Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’ – Compact, 40–50 cm high, very popular
- Nepeta ‘Blue Wonder’ – Smaller growing, around 30 cm
- Nepeta ‘Souvenir d’André Chaudron’ – Larger leaves and sky blue flowers
- Nepeta citriodora – Lemon-scented foliage
- Nepeta mussinii – Compact and useful as a ground cover
Care
This is a tough drought tolerant plant once established. Long flowering and in a good well drained humus rich soil requires little care other than light pruning to tidy up.
Growing Conditions
Nepeta is easy to grow and performs best in the following conditions:
- Full sun to light shade
- Well-drained soil (essential)
- Tolerates poor soils once established
- Drought tolerant after establishment
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to Care for Nepeta
Once established, Nepeta requires very little maintenance.
- Water regularly during establishment
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage repeat blooms
- Cut back harder in late season to maintain shape
- Apply a slow-release fertiliser once or twice a year
Deadheading will help extend the flowering period.
Uses in the Garden
Nepeta is a versatile plant with multiple uses:
- Border planting and edging
- Cottage gardens and informal designs
- Ground cover for sunny areas
- Pollinator-friendly planting
- Natural insect repellent (some species)
It combines well with roses, salvias, and ornamental grasses.
Benefits of Growing Nepeta
- Long flowering season
- Low water requirements
- Attracts bees and beneficial insects
- Easy care and low maintenance
- Suitable for a wide range of climates
Problems and Pests
Nepeta is generally trouble-free.
- Overwatering is the most common issue
- Poor drainage can cause root problems
- Plants may become woody if not pruned
Regular trimming keeps plants compact and productive.
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Cat Nip Plants (Nepeta species) are available for sale from the following nurseries
Little Hampton, Vic 345
"Mail order nursery specialising in cottage garden perennials, flowering shrubs, Trilliums, Hostas and Pacific Coast Iris. Flat rate express postage - Except WA & TAS"
www.botanicaltreasures.com
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
www.planterspatch.com.au
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
'Umbango' 750 Humula Rd, Humula NSW 2652
Phone 0408692773 Great Range of Perennial plants available for sale by mail order.
www.nutshellnursery.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au