What Are the Different Types of Catmint Plant

Catmint, also known as Nepeta, is a plant that belongs to the mint family. It is a perennial plant that is easy to grow and maintain, making it an ideal addition to any garden. There are several types of catmint plants, each with unique characteristics and growing requirements. In this article, we will explore the different types of catmint plants.

Common Catmint (Nepeta Cataria)

Common catmint, also known as catnip, is perhaps the most well-known type of catmint. It is a bushy plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and produces white or lavender flowers in the summer months. The leaves of the common catmint plant have a strong scent that is attractive to cats, which is why it is often used as a toy or treat for felines.

Common catmint is easy to grow and requires full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. This type of catmint plant is also deer-resistant.

Walker’s Low Catmint (Nepeta × faassenii ‘Walker’s Low’)

Walker’s Low catmint is a popular variety that produces lavender-blue flowers in the summer months. It grows up to 2 feet tall and has gray-green leaves that are fragrant when crushed. This type of catmint plant is easy to grow and requires full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions.

Persian Catmint (Nepeta mussinii)

Persian catmint produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in the summer months. It grows up to 1 foot tall and has gray-green leaves that are fragrant when crushed. This type of catmint plant prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate dry conditions but does not do well in wet soil.

Six Hills Giant Catmint (Nepeta × faassenii ‘Six Hills Giant’)

Six Hills Giant catmint is a large variety that grows up to 3 feet tall and produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in the summer months. It has gray-green leaves that are fragrant when crushed. This type of catmint plant requires full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate dry conditions but does not do well in wet soil.

Cat’s Pajamas Catmint (Nepeta × faassenii ‘Cat’s Pajamas’)

Cat’s Pajamas catmint is a compact variety that grows up to 20 inches tall and produces spikes of blue-purple flowers in the summer months. It has gray-green leaves that are fragrant when crushed. This type of catmint plant requires full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate dry conditions but does not do well in wet soil.

Junior Walker Catmint (Nepeta × faassenii ‘Junior Walker’)

Junior Walker catmint is a dwarf variety that grows up to 6 inches tall and produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in the summer months. It has gray-green leaves that are fragrant when crushed. This type of catmint plant requires full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate dry conditions but does not do well in wet soil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I grow catmint indoors?

Yes, you can grow catmint indoors as long as you provide it with enough light and water.

Is catmint safe for cats to eat?

Yes, catmint is safe for cats to eat. In fact, it is often used as a treat for felines.

How often should I water my catmint plant?

You should water your catmint plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture.

Can I prune my catmint plant?

Yes, you can prune your catmint plant to keep it looking neat and tidy. Simply trim back any dead or damaged foliage as needed.

How do I propagate my catmint plant?

You can propagate your catmint plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall. Simply dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil.