Nepeta nuda (naked catmint) — perennial herb

Overview

Nepeta nuda is a perennial herb in the genus Nepeta, part of the Q53476 family. Nepeta nuda 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, rock gardens and herb gardens. It is native to S Europe Asia.

About

Nepeta nuda is a perennial herb in the genus Nepeta notable for scented flowers and foliage. It prefers full sun or partial shade on well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil with moderate moisture. Flowering runs from June to September and plants carry an H5 hardiness rating. Use it where scent can be enjoyed nearby, for example in borders, rock gardens or herb beds.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Nepeta nuda

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 nuda is a perennial herb in the mint family native to S Europe Asia and belonging to the genus Nepeta. As a herbaceous perennial it produces scented flowers and aromatic foliage that give it a specific role in cultivated planting schemes where scent is wanted over a long summer period. Plant in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with well-drained soil that is neutral to alkaline. It prefers a moderate soil moisture regime rather than wet feet. Nepeta nuda is rated H5 (hardy), so it will tolerate typical UK winters in most gardens provided drainage prevents prolonged waterlogging. It fits well in mixed borders, rock gardens and herb gardens where its scent can be appreciated at close range. Flowers appear from June to September, giving a steady period of interest through the summer and into early autumn. Position plants where passing traffic or a seating area will pick up the fragrance from both flowers and foliage, making the most of its sensory contribution to the plot.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Nepeta

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moderate
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Nepeta nuda size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herb
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, herb gardens
Native to: S Europe Asia
Fragrance: Flower, Foliage

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Nepeta nuda

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant once established.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation: Seed, cuttings