Also known as Catmint · 2.8k saves
Nepeta
Nepeta, the genus most gardeners know as catmint. We track 26 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Nepeta varieties
See all 26 Nepeta varieties →Search this genus →
10 species of Nepeta
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Nepeta in Sow
Save the Nepeta you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Nepeta
Whats common across all Nepeta varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 26 most-grown of them.
The Nepeta year
- PruneJuly and August96% of varieties
Shear back by half after the first flush of flowers to promote rebloom.
- DivideApril and October88% of varieties
Divide clumps every 3-5 years when flowering decreases
- Spring CleanupMarch85% of varieties
Cut back old stems in late winter or early spring.
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
- Provide full sun for optimal blooming
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize in late fall
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Nepeta
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing on leaves | Increase humidity and spray with insecticidal soap |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing on the plant, stippled or yellowing leaves, especially in hot, dry weather. | Spray forcefully with water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Increase humidity. |
| None | Nepeta is renowned for being virtually pest-free due to its aromatic oils. | No action is typically required. |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply sulfur fungicide |
Making more Nepeta
Cuttings
- Take 4-inch softwood cuttings in late spring.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone.
- Place in moist soil and keep humid for 4-6 weeks.
Division
- In spring or fall, dig up the entire clump.
- Use a spade or your hands to pull the clump apart into smaller sections.
- Replant the divisions immediately.
- Water well until established.
Nepeta questions
How many types of Nepeta are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 26 distinct Nepeta varieties. The most popular — ranked by 2.8k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Nepeta grow in?
Across its varieties, Nepeta covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Nepeta bloom?
Most Nepeta varieties bloom in late spring to fall, early summer, late spring to late summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Nepeta should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.