Blue Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) is a resilient perennial known for its vibrant blue-lavender flowers and aromatic foliage. Native to Eurasia and cherished in gardens worldwide, Catmint offers continuous blooms from late spring to early fall. This low-maintenance plant is loved by pollinators—especially bees and butterflies—and makes an excellent companion for roses and ornamental grasses.
Ideal for gardeners seeking drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and long-blooming flowers, Blue Catmint thrives in sunny locations and adapts well to various soil conditions. Perfect for borders, rock gardens, or cottage garden designs, this plant delivers a burst of color and fragrance all season long.
Features
- Non-GMO Nepeta mussinii variety
- Produces abundant blue-lavender flower spikes
- Highly aromatic foliage with mint-like scent
- Long bloom period: late spring through fall
- Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant once established
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Excellent for borders, containers, or pollinator gardens
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Nepeta mussinii
- Common Name (US): Blue Catmint
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering herb
- Height: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm)
- Spread: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
- Growth Habit: Compact, mounding
- Foliage Color: Silvery-green
- Flower Color: Blue to lavender
- Bloom Time: Late spring to early fall
- Light Requirements: Full sun to light shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy soil
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
- Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant when mature
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–8
- Temperature Range: 45–85°F (7–29°C)
- Days to Germination: 14–21 days
- Seed Depth: 1/8 inch deep
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches apart
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Fertilizer: Light feeding during spring
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes – attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
- Seed Viability: 2 years if stored in a cool, dry place
Planting Guide
- Sowing Time: Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Seed Preparation: No pre-treatment needed.
- Sowing Depth: Sow 1/8 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Light Requirement: Needs light to germinate – do not cover heavily.
- Watering: Keep soil moist until germination; reduce watering after seedlings establish.
- Germination Time: 14–21 days.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors when temperatures reach 60°F (15°C).
- Spacing: Space 12–18 inches apart for best air circulation.
- Maintenance: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming and compact growth.