Nepeta kubanica - Catnip

Nepeta kubanica is a wild botanical species native to Moldova which is still rare in cultivation. It resembles Nepeta subsessilis but its growth is sturdier and its foliage finer. This robust perennial forms a dense dark green bush and produces beautiful dark blue-violet spikes of flowers all summer long, which fade to a reddish-purple. It is a large nepeta that loves sun and well-drained soils. This beautiful plant is very hardy and heat-tolerant and should be planted in all of our gardens.

Nepeta kubanica belongs to the lamiaceae family, like mints and salvias. It originates from the Caucasus, particularly from Moldova, Russia and Dagestan. This perennial forms an erect, dense and bushy clump 80 cm (32in) to 1 m (3ft) high, with a spread of at least 50 cm (20in), which spreads through its rhizomes. Flowering occurs from June to September, sometimes until October. The long, tubular, dark blue flowers are grouped in spikes, measure 3 cm (1in) long and attract a large number of bees and butterflies. The deciduous foliage is dark green and slightly aromatic. The leaves are ovate, dentate and smooth, 6 to 9 cm (2 to 4in) long. It is one of the tallest species and one of the best at withstanding cold, and relatively hot and dry summers. After flowering, the entire upper part of the plant becomes purple, the floral stems and spikes covered with bristly seeds and the leaves at the top of the bush.

Nepeta kubanica is easy to grow in well-drained soil and has a bright future. It prefers sunny situations but does not mind the soil type. Nepeta kubanica can be planted in beds, on large slopes or even in pots. Associate it with large roses for a romantic atmosphere or with yellow-flowered perennials (Rudbeckia, daylilies, California poppies) for a contrasting look. It also pairs very well with euphorbia and ornamental garlic (Allium sphaerocephalon, A. amethystinum).