cat nepeta

What is Cat Nepeta?

Cat nepeta refers to several species and hybrids in the Nepeta genus, commonly known as catmint. These hardy perennials are famed for their fragrant leaves and abundant, spiky blooms. Cat nepeta plants are incredibly tolerant of drought, poor soils, and even coastal conditions, making them ideal for New Zealand landscapes. For keen cat owners, these plants hold another special advantage: many cats love to roll in, nibble, or simply lounge beside Nepeta thanks to nepetalactone, a natural compound in the leaves.

Popular Varieties of Cat Nepeta

There’s a wealth of cat nepeta varieties to suit every garden. Some of the most robust and ornamental include:

• Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint): With arching stems and prolific blue flowers, it’s a top choice for edging paths or group planting.
• Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' (Catmint): This compact selection offers neat mounds of soft foliage and masses of vibrant blooms, perfect for smaller spaces or containers.
• Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint): It lives up to its name with sprawling growth, showy blooms, and exceptional drought resistance.
• Nepeta faassenii: Known for being exceptionally floriferous and sterile (it won’t self-seed or become weedy), this variety has a long flowering season and a neat shape.
• Nepeta mussinii (Catmint): A compact, cottage-garden favourite, beloved for its tidy form and prolific display of bluish-lavender flowers.

Growing and Using Cat Nepeta

Cat nepeta is unfussy and quick to establish. Plant in full sun for the best flowering, though some light shade is tolerated in hotter parts of NZ. Free-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot, but once established, cat nepeta will cope well with dry spells. Prune back after each main flush of flowers to promote reblooming and keep your clumps tidy. These perennials are perfect for filling gaps in borders, softening the hard edges of paths and patios, or mass planting for a sea of colour. They pair beautifully with roses, salvias, and ornamental grasses.

Cat owners often notice their pets are drawn to nepeta in the garden. While some cats may nibble the leaves or seek out patches to sit on, cat nepeta is completely non-toxic, making it a safe and fun addition if you’re gardening with pets.

Why Choose Cat Nepeta for Your NZ Garden?

With its tough, undemanding nature and masses of fragrant, colourful flowers, cat nepeta is an outstanding addition to gardens across New Zealand. Whether you’re aiming for year-round interest, supporting pollinators, or simply offering your feline friend a treat, there’s a cat nepeta variety that will suit your needs. Explore our range of Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint), Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' (Catmint), Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint), Nepeta faassenii, and Nepeta mussinii (Catmint) to find your perfect match.