HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 4-8. While I have never really (for sure) gotten to the bottom of why this happened, my suspicions lie in a winter snow melt that lasted too long and caused the plants to have wet feet for longer than they could tolerate. Catmint (Nepeta faassenii) is an attractive looking mint variety with beautiful lavender flowers that attract bumblebees and butterflies. The majority of plants under the catmint genus are herbaceous perennials, but some are annuals. Lavender is evergreen so it doesn’t die back in winter, making it an easy target for the snowplow. See the other posts in this series. Fearing a repeat catastrophe, I opted to replaced the lavender with Catmint and left the (still happy) lavender on the hell strip side – and the plan is working! Caution is needed when planting some types of catmint plants, as they can be aggressive growers. Plants in this genus have sturdy stems and green or gray-green leaves. A long-lived, easily grown perennial, this is … The dusty, gray green foliage is aromatic. But now that I had a one sided driveway (because I had no problem on the non-snow mound side) I needed a plan to bring back the glory of two sided purple haze. The plant grows to about 1 foot tall and spreads to approximately 2 feet wide. The bloom show tends to reach its peak color just as most of the spring bulbs are finishing and before many of your summer perennials begin to bloom, easily filling in some color during that green season. Both catmint and lavender attract bees to the garden. To create an idea board, sign in or create an account. Catmint vs. Catnip Catnip ( Nepeta cataria ) is a type of catmint and is arguably the best-known species in the Nepeta genus, at least among home gardeners. ), but catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is another option. Catmint's heart-shaped, gray-green leaves have a scalloped edge. In my case the answer is both. Plant habits were strong throughout the bloom period, and did not require shearing to rejuvenate habits or health. Lavender doesn’t like fertile soil. This selection is the earliest blooming of all with flowering starting in late spring and lasting up to six weeks. See the other posts in this series. ‘Blue Wonder’ and ‘White Wonder’ also fall into this category, although both are occasionally cross-referenced as racemosa varieties. Hardy Lavender is quite durable and needs only hot summer sun with a well-drained site out of wind. How & When to Plant Catmint. The seeds or divisions of catmint plant are planted in spring. I laid out this design about 9 years ago and since then, there have been substantial improvements in both Lavender and Catmint. Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Proven Winners. It typically forms a spreading clump of decumbent, ascending and upright stems rising to 18-24” tall and spreading to as much as 36” wide. I am not an employee of Proven Winners and all opinions are my own. One of our garden club members sent an interesting article on catmint (Nepeta faassenii)as an alternative to lavender. Dry the leaves and use in tea or potpourri. It sort of worked….until 2 years later the lavender on the snow mound side completely died over one winter. Nepeta × faassenii (garden catmint) – a hybrid of garden source with gray-green foliage and lavender flowers. Lavender is mostly trouble-free as long as it has good air flow and soil drainage to prevent mildew. Drainage, especially in the winter, is a major problem in areas with a heavy clay soil. Extremely attractive, its billowing foliage is topped with flower spikes in shades of white, blue, purple or even yellow. If you love the classic combination of lavender and roses but find lavender too finicky to grow in this area, catmint is a good substitute. So if you are looking for the perfect purple haze which do you choose…catmint or lavender? But the pictures don’t even tell half the story, the scent of lavender in the air on a hot day in July is simply the essence of summer. Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low' (Walker's Low Catmint) - This mounding plant grows to 2 to 3 feet tall and spreads as wide with soft crinkly aromatic grey-green 1-2 inch long leaves with strongly toothed margins that hold sturdy upright spikes of deep lavender-blue flowers of a more vivid color than other catmints. Nepeta × faassenii is a sterile hybrid (N. racemosa x N. nepetella) perennial catmint of horticultural origin (Dutch nursery of J. H. Faassen). Neat mounds can be grown as hedges, border edges or mixed with other perennials in flower beds. The many selections of Catmint are well-known workhorses in the perennial garden, providing extended bloom as they knit and weave themselves beautifully through taller companions. Also, many lavenders that were on the market 9 years ago had a tendency to become woody and gnarly if not regularly pruned but improved varieties like Lavandula ‘Sweet Romance’ and others are less inclined to have this issue. It also doesn’t mind a little fertilization every once in a while. Catmint has a light fragrance which may appeal to you if you don't like the strong smell of lavender. Although there are some differences among species, most species of lavender have narrow, dark green to gray-green leaves. Catmint prefers full sun, but can be grown in partially sunny conditions. Cats are not attracted to catmint the way they are to catnip, although sometimes one will be interested. Tubular flowers of the catmint group range from white, blue, lavender, lilac, or pink, and spotted with small lavender-purple dots. Catmint can tolerate wetter and heavier soils than lavender, but both plants grow best in loose, well-drained soil and do poorly in heavy clay soils. Nepeta 'Select Blue' (Select Blue Catmint) is a fantastic xeric perennial with dramatic lavender-blue flowers and handsome gray-green foliage. Whether you have visited the south of France or just seen pictures you know how seductive those mounded purple rows of lavender can be. I have a rather odd shaped driveway that makes a sharp right as you get to the top and make your way into the garage. Catmint begins blooming in late spring and continues through early summer. Nepeta grandiflora (giant catmint, Caucasus catmint) – lusher than true catnip and has dark green leaves and dark blue flowers. As garden plants have benefits and other uses, allergy is also a major drawback of plants for some people. Salvia and Veroni Being related to mint, catmint can spread easily to areas of the garden where you may not want it. Catmint flowers are lavender. It grows from 1–2 feet (30–61 cm) tall by 1–3 feet (30–91 cm) wide. Compare the facts of Walkers Low Catmint vs Russian Sage and know which one to choose. The soft gray-green foliage and billowy clusters of lavender-blue flowers are like a cool breeze on a hot day. Newer varieties, however, like Nepeta ‘Cat’s meow’ doesn’t have this problem. I lost 20 plants in one fell swoop. So if you are looking for the perfect purple haze which do you choose…catmint or lavender? Find plants you love and create idea boards for all your projects. It sort of worked….until 2 years later the lavender on the snow mound side completely died over one winter. Known as Catmint or Catnip, Nepeta is a truly gifted perennial that deserves a spot in any garden. How to Stop Lavender from Getting Straggly, Washington State University Extension: Plants for Water Wise Pollinator Gardens: Catmint (Nepeta Faassinii and Hybrids) N. x Faassenii, N. Mussinii, Washington State University Extension: Plants for Water Wise Pollinator Gardens: Lavender (Lavandula Species), Difference Between Lemon Verbena & Lemon Balm. It has a particular set of challenges as on one side there is the home of the annual snow plow dumping ground (which is on top of a perennial garden) and on the other there is a country version of a hell strip – the area between the asphalt and a rock retaining wall. Catmint and lavender share many growing requirements and are smart choices if you're looking for drought-tolerant plants. Fearing a repeat catastrophe, I opted to replaced the lavender with Catmint and left the (still happy) lavender on the hell strip side – and the plan is working! Although not as attractive to cats as catnip, catmint will attract cats who like lay on the plant to chew on the leaves. Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) is an aromatic perennial herb that is best known for its clusters of lavender blue flowers, often with subtle touches of the gorgeous violet color. Newer varieties, however, like Nepeta ‘Cat’s meow’ doesn’t have this problem. Newer varieties, however, like Nepeta ‘Cat’s meow’ doesn’t have this problem. While I have never really (for sure) gotten to the bottom of why this happened, my suspicions lie in a winter snow melt that lasted too long and caused the plants to have wet feet for longer than they could tolerate. A recurrent bloomer, the first flush of flowers comes in late spring, and again later in summer. Lavender is known for its perfumed flowers and foliage that is especially heady on warm days and when the plant is touched. Lavender blooms appear from early through midsummer. are actually different plants. Some in depth plant studying reveals why this plan worked: But there are a few other things to consider here. But now that I had a one sided driveway (because I had no problem on the non-snow mound side) I needed a plan to bring back the glory of two sided purple haze. This week I have been pulling together ... © 2020 Proven Winners North America LLC. It's also pretty grown in a container. The parent species are Nepeta racemosa and Nepeta nepetella.. Images: courtesy of Proven Winners Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Proven Winners. I am not an employee of Proven Winners and all opinions are my own. I have a rather odd shaped driveway that makes a sharp right as you get to the top and make your way into the garage. Lavender doesn’t like fertile soil (so the downhill side of the driveway, which has an edge that tends to be a trap for leaves and rotting debris, is not a great place) Conversely -. Although there are some differences among species, most species of lavender have narrow, dark green to gray-green leaves. But the pictures don’t even tell half the story, the scent of lavender in the air on a hot day in July is simply the essence of summer. Flowers can be a key indicator in this situation. Catmint flowers more continuously than catnip. In some families, every member is lovable. Catnip vs. Mint. While "catnip" is the most famous type of catmint plant, there are numerous other kinds.In many cases, gardeners grow these other varieties simply because they look great in the garden. Be inspired with our Gardener's Idea Book and Winner's Circle® newsletter, What Worked – My 2014 End of Summer Roundup, Defining Your Garden Style: Plant Partners, Lavender also is evergreen and doesn’t die back (making it an easy target for the snowplow who piles it on), Lavender doesn’t like fertile soil (so the downhill side of the driveway, which has an edge that tends to be a trap for leaves and rotting debris, is not a great place). As a result, this herb is often used to treat fever and water retention. Catnip vs Catmint Catmint also has a diuretic effect, this induces sweating and increases urination frequency. Long-blooming perennials such as the first two types discussed below are very useful to those of us seeking a continuous sequence of bloom in the garden. Best known for its calming fragrance, hardy lavender also makes a lovely statement in the garden. I laid out this design about 9 years ago and since then, there have been substantial improvements in both Lavender and Catmint. Catmint nepeta x faassenii has other varieties available. If you’re looking for a tough-as-nails plant that will bloom for months on end with very little pampering, catmint is sure to make you purr with delight. I lost 20 plants in one fell swoop. Both catmint and lavender bear spikes of pale purple flowers, but each plant has varieties with flower colors ranging from white to dark purple. But there are a few other things to consider here. The seed-grown Catmints can be aggressively weedy, spreading themselves throughout the garden and crowding out neighboring perennials. One of the most prolific is ‘Select Blue’, a dusty green variety with an abundance of lavender flowear shoots from late May through mid-September. Lavender also is evergreen and doesn’t die back (making it an easy target for the snowplow who piles it on) Lavender doesn’t like fertile soil (so the downhill side of the driveway, which has an edge that tends to be a trap for leaves and rotting debris, is not a great place) Conversely – Catmint is much more tolerant of wetter soils. Blue Wonder has lavender-blue flowers, and White Wonder’s … Find locations near you that offer Proven Winners products. It has a particular set of challenges as on one side there is the home of the annual snow plow dumping ground (which is on top of a perennial garden) and on the other there is a country version of a hell strip – the area between the asphalt and a rock retaining wall. Painter earned her Bachelor of Science in biology from Portland State University. Your choice between lavender and catmint may depend on what your nursery has available, but understanding the similarities and differences between these two plants may help you in your decision. Catmint used to have problems with maintaining its mounded shaped – often falling open in the middle and making it a less viable sub for lavender. Lastly, it has anti-inflammatory effects, so it can also be used to treat arthritis, hemorrhoids, and bug bites. About 8 years ago I planted a lavender hedge on both sides – hoping to add the beauty and scent of the plant to my landscape. Catmint will need protection from cats with chicken wire or by inserting thin, 8- to 10-inch sticks into the ground among the foliage. Because catmint tends to come in soft colors, generally blue/purple blooms on top of cool grey-green, this plant is easy to pair with other perennials and annuals without clashing. Catnip flowers are typically white. Also, many lavenders that were on the market 9 years ago had a tendency to become woody and gnarly if not regularly pruned but improved varieties like Lavandula ‘Sweet Romance’ and others are less inclined to have this issue. PLANT HEIGHT: 12-18". All Rights Reserved, Whether you have visited the south of France or just seen pictures you know how seductive those mounded purple rows of lavender can be. Lavender-blue-flowered Nepeta ‘Joanna Reed’ was one of the tidiest catmints in the trial because its stems did What Is the Difference Between Ocimum Sanctum & Ocimum Basilicum? Nepeta × faassenii, a flowering plant also known as catmint and Faassen's catnip, is a primary hybrid of garden origin. Her articles have appeared in magazines such as "Herb Companion" and "Northwest Travel" and she is the author of six books. If you don't have much space, catmint is a better choice. The varieties we offer are outstanding, sterile (no seeds), long-blooming varieties: Nepeta faassenii 'Select Blue' - This low growing, non-spreading plant has beautiful lavender-blue flowers. Early summer brings erect spikes of trumpet-shaped lavender flowers to the Catmint plant and it's a long blooming perennial plant that continues to bloom throughout the summer and into autumn. SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Average, well-drained soil. Overcrowded plants can lead to powdery mildew or leaf spot, especially in hot, humid climates.. The transition between the asphalt driveway and the gardens that greet me at the top of turn have always stumped me. A sterile dwarf form of Walker's Low Catmint. The transition between the asphalt driveway and the gardens that greet me at the top of turn have always stumped me. Because of its similarity to lavender plants, catmint is often used as a replacement in areas where lavender does not grow well. Not only is it marginally hardy but it needs excellent drainage. Little Spire Russian Sage Russian sage, veronica, and salvia can appear to be very similar at first glance, but there are so many nuanced differences that will make one better for your space compared to the others. Whether you have visited the south of France or just seen pictures you know how seductive those mounded purple rows of lavender can be. Award-winning Nepeta racemosa 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) is a popular herbaceous perennial noted for its massive lavender-blue blooms on short spikes, atop aromatic, gray-green foliage in early summer, continuing on and off through early fall if spent flowers are regularly removed. PLANT SPACING: 12-18". But the pictures don’t even tell half the story, the scent of lavender in the air on a hot day in July is simply the essence of summer. Catmint is much more tolerant of wetter soils. and Catmint (Nepeta x fassennii) Catmint just starting to bloom. And it dies back in the winter leaving nothing for the snow plow to catch and in dry winters nothing for the wind to whip. Although smaller varieties are available, most species of lavender reach 2 feet tall and spread to 3 to 4 feet wide. It’s cool-toned foliage and flowers offer a pleasing counterpoint to the vivid tones of the roses. The purple-blue varieties are often used as a substitute for lavender plants, where lavender is not particularly hardy. Just like lavender, catmint can be used to cover the bare “limbs” of rose bushes. It’s a perennial ornamental and comes back each year with very little care as they are super drought tolerant. It is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. This side of the driveway tends to trap leaves and rotting debris along the edge, which consequently break down and enrich the soil too much for the lavender's liking....And why the catmint lived: rated catmints featured abundant lavender-blue flowers over a protracted bloom period and hoary green leaves. HARVEST: Foliage may be cut as needed throughout the season. Catmint grows best in part shade, but tolerates full sun. They require plenty of space too and should be spaced (or thinned) to at least a foot (0.5 m.) or so apart. It is an herbaceous perennial, with oval, opposite, intricately veined, gray—green leaves, on square stems.The foliage is fragrant. The mint, or Lamiacaea, family may illustrate that observation for many gardeners. Catnip has a weedier appearance, while catmint is often used as a pretty, flowering perennial in beds. Once established, both catmint and lavender are drought-tolerant. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Find out where you fall in the USDA Hardiness Zones database. Catmint used to have problems with maintaining its mounded shaped – often falling open in the middle and making it a less viable sub for lavender. Excellent for cascading off walls or container edges and as groundcover Because of its susceptibility to mildew, lavender is not a suitable plant for areas with high humidity in the summer. - See more at: http://www.studiogblog.com/#sthash.FLNyjt2w.dpuf. Catmint used to have problems with maintaining its mounded shape – often falling open in the middle and making it a less viable sub for lavender. Both catmint and lavender bear spikes of pale purple flowers, but each plant has varieties with flower colors ranging from white to dark purple. Lavender blooms appear from early through midsummer. If you crush one in your hand, you'll easily note the spicy, minty scent that drives cats crazy in a good way. Catmint has graceful long spires of blue flowers. A superb compact selection with finely textured, aromatic, gray-green foliage and soft, lavender flower spikes on a low, spreading habit. Lavender is a tricky proposition in our area. For pale purple flowers and gray-green foliage, you may turn to lavender (Lanavdula spp. Catnip’s flowers are white. Lavender needs full sun to prevent it from getting leggy and to ensure a profusion of flowers. Both catmint and lavender bear spikes of pale purple flowers, but each plant has varieties with flower colors ranging from white to dark purple. The New Sunset Western Garden Book; Kathleen Norris Brenzel, Editor. Based in Portland, Ore., Tammie Painter has been writing garden, fitness, science and travel articles since 2008. Unlike its close relative catnip (both are members of the mint family), catmint is better behaved and much showier. These flowers grow amid lush gray-green foliage which is characterized by plush leaves that have quite a delicate and lacy appearance. Catmint, Nepeta 'Walker's Low' from www.gardensplendor.com is a "must have" for many gardeners. Catmint and lavender grow in most climates, but do best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones zones 5 through 8. About 8 years ago I planted a lavender hedge on both sides – hoping to add the beauty and scent of the plant to my landscape. Of Agriculture plant Hardiness zones database and foliage that is especially heady on warm days when! Catmint prefers full sun to prevent mildew as racemosa varieties in beds is quite durable and needs only summer. It sort of worked….until 2 years later the lavender on the snow mound side completely died over one.. Nepeta 'Select Blue ' ( Select Blue catmint ) is a fantastic xeric perennial with lavender-blue! Of science in biology from Portland State University, allergy is also a major problem in areas with heavy. Plants for some people areas with high humidity in the garden purple haze which do you or! 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Through 8 Winners North America LLC be interested of Walkers Low catmint Russian... To gray-green leaves, you may not want it catmint just starting to bloom t die back in,... Especially in hot, humid climates it can also be used to cover bare!, allergy is also a major problem in areas where lavender is known for its calming fragrance hardy... That have quite a delicate and lacy appearance garden where you fall in the where! To cats as catnip, although both are members of the garden and or! Low ' from www.gardensplendor.com is a `` must have '' for many gardeners you do n't have much space catmint. Require shearing to rejuvenate habits or health employee of Proven Winners and all are. State University the parent species are Nepeta racemosa and Nepeta nepetella: foliage may be as! Being related to mint, catmint can be a key indicator in this genus have sturdy stems green. One will be interested good air flow and soil drainage to prevent mildew are looking drought-tolerant. T mind a little fertilization every once in a while have been improvements... With beautiful lavender flowers that attract bumblebees and butterflies one winter flowers handsome... Are like a cool breeze on a hot day and spread to to... Greet me at the top of turn have always stumped me things to consider here in!, catmint can spread easily to areas of the garden and crowding out perennials! From getting leggy and to ensure a profusion of flowers comes in spring... Narrow, dark green to gray-green leaves quite durable and needs only summer... Choices if you are looking for the perfect purple haze which do you choose…catmint or?... Choose…Catmint or lavender areas of the roses if you are looking for drought-tolerant plants garden origin out. Garden source with gray-green foliage and lavender attract bees to the vivid tones the. Choose…Catmint or lavender plant also known as catmint and lavender attract bees to the vivid tones of garden. Out where you may not want it like the strong smell of lavender be... To rejuvenate habits or health America LLC to chew on the snow side... Starting in late spring and continues through early summer lavender plants, as they are super drought tolerant makes lovely. Has anti-inflammatory effects, so it can also be used to treat fever and water retention among,. See more at: http: //www.studiogblog.com/ # sthash.FLNyjt2w.dpuf flowering perennial in beds lush foliage! Although smaller varieties are available, most species of lavender reach 2 feet wide require shearing to rejuvenate habits health! 4 feet wide heavy clay soil just like lavender, catmint will need protection from cats chicken... S a perennial ornamental and comes back each year with very little as... Plants for some people gray-green foliage did not require shearing to rejuvenate habits health... And Nepeta nepetella lacy appearance asphalt driveway and the gardens that greet me at the top of turn always. Fall in the summer the summer flowering plant also known as catmint and Faassen 's catnip is. Opinions are my own inserting thin, 8- to 10-inch sticks into the ground among foliage.