Broadleaf Catmint

(Nepeta latifolia)

Broadleaf Catmint (Nepeta latifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Broadleaf Catmint, Wideleaf Catmint, or Broad-leaved Catnip, is a perennial herb native to France and Spain. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.5-2.5 feet (0.46-0.8 meters) and a width of 1.5-2 feet (0.5-0.6 meters). This plant features aromatic, heart-shaped, gray-green leaves and produces dense spikes of tubular, blue or purple flowers that are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. The flowers are quite showy and bloom in the summer, often continuing into early fall.

Broadleaf Catmint is valued for its fragrant foliage and flowers, which are used in herbal medicine and to attract pollinators. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. It is commonly used in borders, rock gardens, and as ground cover. This catmint prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have good drainage. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can occasionally suffer from root rot in overly wet conditions. It is also worth noting that, like other Nepeta species, it can attract cats, which may roll in or chew on the plants, sometimes causing minor damage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes, scrublands, and riverbanks of Southwestern Asia and Eastern Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Wideleaf Catmint , Broad-leaved Catnip

Scientific Names: Nepeta latifolia , Cataria latifolia , Nepeta grandiflora , Nepeta latifolia subsp. latifolia , Nepeta latifolia subsp. oscensis , Nepeta latifolia var. albiflora , Nepeta latifolia var. azureisepala , Nepeta nuda subsp. latifolia , Nepeta nuda var. grandiflora , Nepeta nuda var. obtusifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: