Overview
Nepeta × faassenii is a perennial in the genus Nepeta, part of the Q53476 family. Nepeta × faassenii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, groundcover and rock gardens.
About
Nepeta × faassenii is a perennial in the genus Nepeta grown for its fragrant foliage. It flowers from June to September. Plant it in full sun or partial shade on well‑drained, neutral to alkaline soil and give it a sheltered position. It is suited to borders, ground cover and rock gardens.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Nepeta × faassenii
About the genus
Nepeta is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae. The genus name, from Latin nepeta (“catnip”), is reportedly in reference to Nepete, an ancient Etruscan city. There are 295 accepted species.
Wikipedia contributors, "Nepeta", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Nepeta
In the garden
Nepeta × faassenii sits within the genus Nepeta and is cultivated as a herbaceous perennial prized for its scented leaves and regular summer flowering (June to September). The foliage scent is the plant’s principal aromatic feature, so it is often chosen where leaf fragrance can be appreciated. For best results place plants in full sun or partial shade in well‑drained, neutral to alkaline soil; the species tolerates dry to medium soil moisture and prefers a sheltered aspect. It is classed H5 (hardy), so it withstands typical UK winter conditions for a hardy perennial; position and soil drainage remain the key influences on winter survival. Keep it away from heavy, waterlogged ground. Use Nepeta × faassenii at the front of sunny borders, to form a low scented ground cover or tucked into rock gardens where free‑draining soil suits its moisture requirements. The foliage fragrance makes it a good choice beside paths or seating so the leaves are encountered and smelled. Given its combination of aromatic leaves and summer flowering, place it where both aspects — scent and season-long blooms — will be noticed by garden visitors.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Nepeta
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- dry,medium
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Nepeta × faassenii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, groundcover, rock gardens
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Nepeta × faassenii
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Avoid wet soils.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
- Propagation
- Division, cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Nepeta × faassenii?
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Avoid wet soils.
Where is the best place to plant Nepeta × faassenii?
Nepeta × faassenii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Nepeta × faassenii need?
Nepeta × faassenii grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.
How do I prune Nepeta × faassenii?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Is Nepeta × faassenii hardy in the UK?
Nepeta × faassenii has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Nepeta × faassenii?
Division, cuttings.
More in the Nepeta genus
- Nepetacatmint
- Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant'catmint 'Six Hills Giant'
- Nepeta 'Souvenir d'André Chaudron'Catmint
- Nepeta gigantea
- Nepeta grandiflora 'Dawn to Dusk'
- Nepeta nudanaked catmint
- Nepeta sibiricaSiberian catmint
- Nepeta × faassenii 'Blue Dwarf' ('Blauknirps')Blue Dwarf Catmint
