catmint nepeta spp

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Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
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Catmint Nepeta spp is a favourite among New Zealand gardeners, prized for its aromatic foliage, resilient nature, and captivating blue-violet blooms. Belonging to the Nepeta genus, catmint species offer both beauty and function in the garden, serving as ornamental perennials, pollinator magnets, and even practical groundcovers. If you’re searching for reliable performers that thrive in Kiwi conditions, catmint nepeta spp deserves a place in your landscape. Let’s explore the unique characteristics, garden uses, and top varieties that make catmint an essential addition to beds, borders, and cottage gardens.

Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' green foliage and blue flowers.

Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint)

Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' is a vigorous perennial prized for its aromatic foliage and abundant lavender blue flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Taller than most Catmints, this variety creates a soft, flowing effect in NZ gardens, attracting bees and butterflies in abundance. Its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs make it ideal for both cottage and modern landscapes. 'Six Hills Giant' delivers colour, fragrance, and resilience with ease.

Buy Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint)

From $18.83

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 50 cm

Spread: 75 cm

Flowering time: Summer, Autumn

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern

Rose 'Desiree'

Rose 'Desiree' is a beautifully refined rose known for soft pastel blooms, gentle fragrance and repeat flowering through the warmer months in New Zealand gardens. This lovely cultivar produces full classic roses on strong stems ideal for cutting and display. With healthy growth glossy foliage and long seasonal performance, Rose 'Desiree' brings romance and timeless floral charm to borders cottage gardens and outdoor living spaces.

Buy Rose 'Desiree'

From $63.38

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Rose Plants

Height: 1.00 m

Spread: 1.00 m

Flowering time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Paths & Steps

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Calamagrostis Nepeta and Rose, or related Categories - Grasses Perennials and Bush Roses.

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What Makes Catmint Nepeta spp Special?

Catmint Nepeta spp stands out for its silvery-green leaves, which release a pleasant fragrance when brushed or crushed—a trait that’s beloved by both humans and, of course, cats. These perennials bloom for months from late spring through summer, producing abundant spikes of lavender, violet, or blue flowers. Their easy-going habit suits a range of garden styles, and they remain drought tolerant once established, ideal for New Zealand’s changeable weather.

Catmint’s versatility means you can plant it in sunny borders, alongside paths, or as part of a wildlife-friendly garden. Nepeta species attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity. They also resist deer and are rarely troubled by pests or diseases, making them a low-maintenance choice for both beginner and expert gardeners.

Popular Varieties of Catmint Nepeta spp

There’s a catmint for every garden. Discover some of the best-loved cultivars among catmint Nepeta spp:

Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint): Known for its impressive height and lavish flower spikes, this variety brings striking colour and presence to borders.
Nepeta mussinii (Catmint): Compact and neat, this classic species is perfect for edging paths or filling smaller spaces.
Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint): With a naturally low-growing habit and prolific blooms, it’s a favourite for mass planting and informal gardens.
Nepeta faassenii: Valued for its sturdy stems and extended flowering season, this hybrid copes well with dry soils.
Nepeta 'Blue Wonder' (Catmint): Showcases deep blue flowers and compact foliage—great for containers and smaller beds.

Growing Catmint Nepeta spp in New Zealand

Catmint Nepeta spp adapts readily to most New Zealand garden conditions. Plant in full sun for the best flower display, although nepeta copes well with partial shade. Well-drained soil is key—avoid soggy spots to prevent root rot. Once established, catmint is drought hardy and requires minimal upkeep. Deadheading spent blooms prolongs the flowering period and keeps plants tidy. Every few years, divide clumps in autumn or early spring to rejuvenate growth and spread catmint across your garden.

Catmint Nepeta spp for Wildlife and Companion Planting

Besides its ornamental value, catmint Nepeta spp offers practical benefits. Planting catmint alongside vegetables or roses can help deter pests, thanks to its aromatic oils. Its long flowering season supports pollinators, making it a cornerstone for eco-friendly gardening. Whether you want a vibrant border plant or a pollinator-friendly herb, catmint fits the bill.

Ready to add catmint Nepeta spp to your garden? Browse our selection and discover the right variety for your space, from the majestic Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint) to the graceful Nepeta 'Walkers Low' (Catmint). Create beauty, attract wildlife, and enjoy the easy-care charm of catmint.

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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.