Nepeta sibirica (Siberian catmint) — perennial

Overview

Nepeta sibirica is a perennial in the genus Nepeta, part of the Q53476 family. Nepeta sibirica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and pollinator gardens. It is native to Siberia to N China.

About

Nepeta sibirica is an erect, aromatic perennial prized for its long season of violet flower spikes from June to September. It carries scent on both foliage and blooms and is native from Siberia to northern China. The plant prefers well-drained soil and tolerates full sun or partial shade. It is classed H5, meaning it is hardy through most of the UK.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Nepeta sibirica

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 sibirica is a herbaceous perennial from Siberia to northern China that produces violet flower whorls on upright stems and gives off fragrance from both flowers and foliage. Flowering runs from June to September, providing an extended period of interest when placed where its scent can be appreciated. Grow it in a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil that retains moderate moisture; avoid waterlogged ground. As an H5-rated plant, it is hardy across much of the UK and will tolerate typical winter conditions in most areas. Sit it in a southerly or westerly-exposed bed if you can, where the blooms open best and pollinators are most active. Use Nepeta sibirica in mixed borders to add vertical, scented flower spikes, in rock gardens where good drainage matters, or in pollinator-focused plots to support bees and butterflies. Plant where you can brush past the foliage: both leaves and flowers release scent when disturbed, so paths and seating areas make logical positions. Expect consistent summer display from June to September and cut back spent stems after flowering to keep the clump tidy and encourage fresh growth the following season.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Nepeta

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

Plant details

Nepeta sibirica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, pollinator gardens
Native to: Siberia to N China
Fragrance: Flower, Foliage

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Nepeta sibirica

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, division, softwood cuttings