CATMINT
Nepeta mussing
Catmint is a low-growing perennial known for its attractive grey-green foliage and spikes of delicate purple or blue flowers. It adds a lovely soft texture to garden edges and borders.
It blooms profusely from late spring through summer and often reblooms if deadheaded. The flowers are also attractive to bees and other beneficial insects.
Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It's relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
It's also a great companion plant for roses.
Catmint is an easy to grow, lovely smelling herb. Can be added to your salad like any other herb. It is more compact than catnip and has showier flowers.
Catmint is great for mass planting or edging and is commonly planted near vegetables as an insect deterrent — especially for aphids and Japanese beetles.
It has masses of purple flowers and is excellent as a ground cover and border.
Catmint is not the herb cats go crazy for - that's catnip!
PRICE: $6.00
SIZE: 5cm radius seedling
Catmint
Nepeta mussing
Australian History
Catmint, belonging to the genus Nepeta, is native to regions of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Various species have been introduced to Australia and have become popular garden plants due to their ornamental value. They have adapted well to many Australian climates.
Australian Uses
In Australia, Catmint is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. Its soft, often grey-green foliage provides a beautiful contrast to other plants, and its long-lasting flowers add color to borders and beds.
Australian Growing Guide
Growing Catmint in Australia is generally easy. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Plant it in spring or autumn, spacing plants according to the mature size of the specific variety (usually 30-60cm apart). Water regularly until established, after which it is quite drought-tolerant. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming.
Australian Landscaping
Catmint is a versatile plant for Australian landscaping. Its mounding or spreading habit makes it ideal for edging pathways, filling in gaps in borders, or cascading over walls. Its silvery foliage complements many color schemes, and its flowers add a touch of cottage-garden charm. It works well in both formal and informal garden styles.
Australian Companion Plants
Catmint is a great companion plant for roses, as it is believed to deter some pests. It also pairs well with other sun-loving perennials like Lavender, Salvia, and Echinacea. Its soft texture can provide a nice contrast to plants with bolder foliage.
Australian Disease Resistance
Catmint is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant in Australia. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, especially in heavier soils. Powdery mildew can occasionally occur in humid conditions, but good air circulation can help prevent this. Overall, it is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various Australian gardens.