Garden hybrid
Nepeta x hybridaCatmint2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Nepeta subsessilis, commonly known as Japanese catmint, is a clump-forming perennial with large, toothed, dark green leaves and spikes of showy flowers. Unlike other catmints, it prefers moist soil.
The 'Neptune' cultivar is a compact form with an upright habit, featuring large, deep blue-purple flowers on dark stems over a long bloom period from summer to fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Late spring – Early fall
In flower about 5 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
- Place in full sun for best flowering results.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune back after flowering for bushy growth
- Divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy, clay soils without proper amendment
- Don’t fertilize excessively; too much nitrogen reduces flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Nepeta Neptune questions
What zones can Nepeta Neptune grow in?
Nepeta Neptune 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 Nepeta Neptune deer resistant?
Yes — Nepeta Neptune is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Nepeta Neptune bloom?
Nepeta Neptune typically blooms in late spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Nepeta Neptune need full sun?
Nepeta Neptune does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Nepeta Neptune drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Nepeta Neptune handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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 Nepeta Neptune 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.