Species nepeta
blue-white flowers with green leaves and lime stems

nepeta

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis, commonly called sensitve catmint, is a member of the mint family. It originates from the deserts of Central Asia, forming small, mat-like patches of aromatic grey-green foliage producing tiny, tubular lilac-blue flowers on short stems. It is particularly attractive to bees and butterflies. The leaves, although mainly evergreen, may become tinged with purple in winter but will become more green with regular trimming. This hardy shrub is drought tolerant and easy to grow, making it perfect for low maintenance perennial gardens—especially those with full sun.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Nepeta, also known as Sensitive Plant, should be well watered and in moderate amounts.In general, it should be watered 1-2 times a week with about 1/2 liter of water per plant.It is important to adjust watering according to the climate and season, as watering too much can cause root rot. During hot summer months, water more frequently (about 2-3 times a week) and provide enough water so that the soil is saturated, then wait until the soil has dried out before watering again.During rainy weather, it may be sufficient to water only once or twice a month.During cooler seasons, you can reduce the amount of water and water less frequently.It is also important to ensure good drainage so that the plant does not get waterlogged.

sunlight

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis, or sensitive catmint, require full sun in order to thrive. Ideally this plant species should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. It is best grown in well-drained soil in an area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil, but does not tolerate standing water or soggy soils. Sensible catmint plants should be planted after all danger of frost has past in early to late spring.

pruning

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis, commonly known as 'touch-me-not' because of its thin, sensitive leaves, should be pruned lightly several times throughout the growing cycle to encourage full growth and to help maintain its shape. Pruning should begin in the spring when new growth appears, and can be repeated every 4-6 weeks until the plant blooms. It is important to prune in the early morning when the plant is still slightly moist to avoid damaging the delicate leaves. Pruning should be done with sharp, clean shears, removing no more than 1-third of the plant at a time. This variety of Nepeta does not usually require heavy pruning, though it may be necessary to remove dead or diseased branches or overcrowded stems. Pruning towards the end of the season can help reduce the likelihood of the plant reseeding itself and taking over the garden.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map