Dwarf Catmint

Nepeta racemosa, also known as dwarf catnip or raceme catnip, is a compact herbaceous perennial in the mint family forming low mounds of grey-green, oval, toothed aromatic leaves. It reaches just 30 cm in height and spreads to about 45 cm, producing abundant violet-blue flower spikes over a long blooming period. It thrives in normal to dry, well-drained soils in full sun and is highly attractive to butterflies and bees. Once established, it is a tough and long-lived perennial suited to border edges and rockery planting.

Growing

Sow seeds indoors at a depth of 0.5 cm when indoor temperatures are stable around 10 °C or above. Germination takes 7–14 days. Start seedlings indoors 8 weeks before transplanting outdoors, or sow directly into well-drained ground in autumn for flowering the following year. Space plants 25–35 cm apart. Transplant outdoors once nights reliably stay above 5 °C and soil has warmed.

Care

Water moderately during establishment; once settled, bergnepeta tolerates dry periods well and requires little supplemental irrigation. Avoid overwatering and heavy soils — good drainage is essential. No regular feeding is needed in average soils. Cut plants back by about half after the first flush of flowers to encourage a second wave of blooming and to maintain a compact habit. No staking required.

Harvest

Harvest flower stems when the blooms are fully open and at their most vibrant. The long flowering period from late spring through late summer allows repeated cutting. Remove faded flower heads promptly to prolong blooming. Plants can be cut back hard after flowering is complete to tidy growth.

In the kitchen

Bergnepeta is grown primarily as an ornamental and pollinator plant rather than for culinary use. The aromatic leaves are related to catnip and share a similar minty, slightly medicinal fragrance. Leaves can be dried and used in herbal teas or sachets.

Storing

Dry harvested stems by hanging them upside down in a warm, airy location. Once fully dry, store loose leaves or flower heads in airtight containers away from light for up to 12 months.