1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Nepeta subsessilis is a hardy herbaceous perennial known for its aromatic foliage and attractive bluish flowers.
Unlike many other catmints, this species prefers consistently moist soils and is less drought tolerant. It has a more upright, non-flopping habit and larger leaves and flowers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
- Mist cuttings with water and place in bright, indirect light for rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall into their permanent spot.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal issues and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't let soil stay soggy
- Refrain from heavy fertilization during dormant months
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Catmint questions
What zones can Japanese Catmint grow in?
Japanese Catmint is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Catmint deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Catmint is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Catmint bloom?
Japanese Catmint typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Catmint need full sun?
Japanese Catmint does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Nepeta to compare
Walker's Low Catmint
Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low'
Cat's Pajamas Catmint
Nepeta x faassenii 'Cat's Pajamas'
Faassen's catmint
Nepeta Nepeta x faassenii
Catmint
Nepeta x hybrida
Six Hills Giant Catmint
Nepeta x faassenii 'Six Hills Giant'
Purrsian Blue Nepeta
Nepeta x faassenii 'Purrsian Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Japanese Catmint with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.