Everything You Need to Know About Growing Faassen’s Catmint

Introduction to Nepeta x. faassenii

Table of Contents

Let’s get one thing straight – CatMINT is not catNIP. Faassen’s catmint, unlike its wild cousin catnip, doesn’t have the same effect on felines. So, no need to worry about attracting a bunch of intoxicated kitties to your garden when you plant it.

Members of the Nepeta genus, including Faassen’s catmint, produce nepetalactone, the chemical that drives cats wild. However, the amount found in Faassen’s catmint is much lower than what you’d find in catnip. So, while you might attract some sensitive kitties to your yard, you won’t be hosting a cat convention.

Why Grow Faassen’s Catmint?

Once established, Faassen’s catmint is a heat and drought-tolerant herbaceous perennial with lovely gray-green foliage. It’s a great addition to any garden, especially in hot and dry climates.

What You’ll Learn

Cultivation and History
Propagation
Growing Tips
Pruning and Maintenance
Cultivars to Select
Managing Pests and Diseases
Best Uses
Quick Reference Growing Chart

Cultivation and History

Origin: The Nepeta genus originates from an ancient Etruscan city, Nepete, now known as Nepi in Tuscany, Italy. These plants are native to various regions, including southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, central Asia, and parts of China.
Genus Name: Nepeta belongs to the mint (Lamiaceae) family and includes around 250 different species of catmints and catnips.
Faassen’s Catmint: The N. x. Faassenii cultivar, also known as N. mussinii, was first cultivated by Faassen Nurseries in the Netherlands. It’s a hybrid of N. racemosa and N. nepetella.
Growing Conditions: While often recommended for full sun, Faassen’s catmint can benefit from partial shade in hot and humid climates like Texas. It can thrive in various soil conditions and pH levels.
Appearance: This plant produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in late spring and continues blooming into fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Propagation

Division: Divide Faassen’s catmint like any other perennial plant.
From Cuttings: Take a 4-5 inch stem cutting and root it in a pot with powdered rooting hormone.
From Seedlings: Plant seedlings in well-drained soil and water regularly until established.

How to Grow

Location: Plant in full sun or partial shade depending on your climate.
Soil: Average, well-drained soil is sufficient.
Watering: Water well until established, then reduce frequency to every few weeks.

Growing Tips

Plant in suitable lighting conditions.
Use any well-drained soil.
Water regularly until established.

Pruning and Maintenance

To encourage repeat blooming, trim the plants back by about half after the initial flush of flowers fades.

Cultivars to Select

Walker’s Low: A popular cultivar with silver-gray foliage, lavender-blue flowers, and a spreading habit.
Jr. Walker: A compact variety similar in height to ‘Walker’s Low’.
Others: Explore options like ‘Blue Wonder,’ ‘Dropmore,’ ‘Snowflake,’ and ‘Six Hills Giant.’

Managing Pests and Diseases

Insects: Watch out for aphids, leafhoppers, slugs, snails, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat as needed with appropriate measures.
Disease: Pseudomonas bacterial infection can be a concern in hot and humid conditions.

Best Uses

Faassen’s catmint is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and ground cover purposes.

Quick Reference Growing Chart

Refer to the quick summary for key information about Nepeta x. Faassenii.

Easy as Pie and Feline-Free

Taking care of Faassen’s catmint is a breeze. Plant it in well-drained soil, water it initially, and then enjoy a low-maintenance perennial that thrives in various conditions. And don’t worry about attracting a horde of cats to your garden – this plant’s effects on felines are much milder than catnip.

Do you have any experience with growing catmint? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!

For more herb growing guides, check out these articles:
– How to Grow Oregano
– How to Grow Mint in the Garden
– How to Grow Common Chicory

Remember, Faassen’s catmint is a versatile and hardy perennial that can bring lasting color and beauty to your garden without the feline frenzy. Enjoy the benefits of growing this lovely plant and watch your garden flourish with Faassen’s catmint.