About
Nepeta sibirica, Siberian catmint, is an upright, aromatic perennial to 90 cm with branching stems and toothed, dark-green leaves to 9 cm long. In mid- and late summer it produces whorled spires of blue to lavender-blue flowers up to 4 cm long. A rewarding and ornamental catmint for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Nepeta, the catmints, are aromatic annuals or, more commonly, perennials with paired, usually hairy leaves and terminal spikes or panicles of two-lipped, tubular flowers in lavender-blue to purple, pink or white. Popular and easy-care border plants attractive to bees.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Gravel garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toSiberia to N China
FragranceFlower, Foliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun but will tolerate light shade
PruningDeadhead spent flowerheads and cut hard back at the end of the flowering season or in early spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn; take softwood stem-tip cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be damaged by slugs and snails and cats
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews