Purple Plant Catmint

Purple plant catmint is a stunning perennial herb that produces vibrant purple flower spikes and aromatic foliage cats adore. Easy to grow and drought-tolerant, this versatile plant thrives in sunny gardens while attracting pollinators and repelling pests naturally.

If you have ever watched a cat roll around in pure bliss among garden plants, chances are they discovered purple plant catmint. This remarkable perennial has been charming felines and gardeners alike for centuries. The soft gray-green foliage releases a minty fragrance when brushed against, and those tall spikes of purple flowers create a stunning display that lasts for months.

I first planted purple plant catmint in my own garden five years ago, and it quickly became one of my favorite perennials. Not only does it look gorgeous swaying in the breeze, but it also brings life to the garden. Bees buzz lazily from flower to flower. Butterflies perform aerial acrobatics. And my neighbor’s cat? Well, he visits daily for his herbal fix. Let me share everything I have learned about growing this amazing plant.

Key Takeaways

• Low maintenance beauty: Purple plant catmint thrives with minimal care once established, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
• Cat magnet: The nepetalactone compound in catmint drives most cats into playful euphoria, providing hours of entertainment.
• Pollinator paradise: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds flock to the nectar-rich purple blooms throughout the growing season.
• Drought tolerant: Once established, purple plant catmint handles dry spells beautifully, ideal for water-wise gardens.
• Long blooming period: Enjoy colorful flowers from late spring through fall with proper deadheading.
• Natural pest deterrent: The strong aroma repels mosquitoes, aphids, and other garden pests while attracting beneficial insects.
• Versatile landscape uses: Works beautifully in borders, rock gardens, containers, and as ground cover.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What is the difference between catmint and catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a weedy plant grown for cats, while purple plant catmint refers to ornamental Nepeta species with showy purple flowers and better garden manners.

How much sun does purple plant catmint need?

Purple plant catmint needs at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for best flowering and compact growth.

Is purple plant catmint invasive?

No, purple plant catmint spreads slowly by rhizomes but is not invasive like true mints. It stays well-behaved in garden borders.

When should I cut back catmint?

Shear purple plant catmint back by half after the first bloom fades in early summer to encourage a second flush of flowers.

Can I grow purple plant catmint in containers?

Yes, purple plant catmint grows well in containers at least 12 inches wide with good drainage and regular watering.

What Is Purple Plant Catmint?

Botanical Background

Purple plant catmint belongs to the genus Nepeta, part of the mint family Lamiaceae. While often confused with catnip (Nepeta cataria), catmint refers to several ornamental species and hybrids prized for their garden performance. The most popular purple plant catmint varieties include Nepeta x faassenii, Nepeta racemosa, and the award-winning Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’.

These plants form neat mounds of aromatic foliage topped with spikes of lavender-blue to deep purple flowers. Unlike aggressive mint relatives, purple plant catmint stays well-behaved in the garden. It spreads slowly by rhizomes but never becomes invasive. The name “catmint” comes from the intense attraction most cats feel toward the plant’s essential oils.

Catmint vs Catnip: Understanding the Difference

Many gardeners confuse purple plant catmint with catnip. While both contain nepetalactone, the compound that affects cats, they serve different purposes. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) grows taller, looks weedy, and produces white flowers. It is grown primarily for cats. Purple plant catmint offers ornamental value with showy purple blooms, compact growth, and better garden manners. Your cats will love both, but purple plant catmint earns its place in decorative borders.

Popular Purple Plant Catmint Varieties

Several outstanding varieties of purple plant catmint deserve a spot in your garden. ‘Walker’s Low’ reaches 24-30 inches tall with deep lavender-blue flowers and won Perennial Plant of the Year in 2007. ‘Six Hills Giant’ grows larger, topping 3 feet with abundant violet-blue blooms. For smaller spaces, ‘Little Trudy’ and ‘Junior Walker’ stay under 18 inches. ‘Purple Haze’ offers exceptionally dark purple flowers on a compact 14-inch plant.

Growing Conditions for Thriving Purple Plant Catmint

Sun Requirements

Purple plant catmint loves sunshine. Plant it where it receives at least six hours of direct sun daily. In hot southern climates, a bit of afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch. Full sun produces the strongest stems, most abundant flowers, and highest essential oil content. Shade-grown catmint becomes leggy, flops over, and flowers sparsely. If your garden lacks full sun, consider planting purple plant catmint in containers you can move to follow the light.

Soil Preferences

Good news for gardeners with less-than-perfect soil. Purple plant catmint thrives in average, well-draining soil. It tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy conditions that would kill fussier plants. The key requirement is drainage. Wet, heavy clay leads to root rot and winter kill. If your soil holds water, amend with compost and coarse sand, or plant in raised beds. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-7.5) is ideal, but purple plant catmint adapts to mildly acidic soil too.

Water Needs

Newly planted purple plant catmint needs regular watering to establish strong roots. Water deeply once or twice weekly during the first growing season. Once established, this plant laughs at drought. Its deep taproot accesses moisture far below the surface. In fact, overwatering causes more problems than underwatering. Excess moisture promotes floppy growth and fungal diseases. During extended dry spells, a monthly deep soak keeps plants looking fresh. Container-grown purple plant catmint needs more frequent watering since pots dry faster.

Temperature and Hardiness

Most purple plant catmint varieties thrive in USDA zones 3-8, with some cultivars hardy to zone 9. They handle winter cold beautifully when planted in well-draining soil. Wet winter soil kills more catmint than cold temperatures. In humid climates, provide good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Purple plant catmint emerges early in spring, sometimes before the last frost. The foliage tolerates light freezes, but hard freezes may damage new growth. A light mulch after the ground freezes helps prevent frost heaving in cold regions.

Planting Purple Plant Catmint Successfully

When to Plant

Spring and fall offer the best planting windows for purple plant catmint. Spring planting gives roots time to establish before summer heat. Fall planting works well in zones 5 and warmer, allowing root growth before winter dormancy. Avoid planting during summer heat or when the ground is frozen. If you must plant in summer, choose a cloudy day and provide temporary shade and extra water.

Spacing and Layout

Space purple plant catmint 18-24 inches apart for most varieties. Larger cultivars like ‘Six Hills Giant’ need 30 inches. Proper spacing ensures good air circulation, reducing disease risk. For a mass planting effect, space plants slightly closer so they knit together. When planting along paths or borders, stagger plants in a zigzag pattern rather than a straight line for a more natural look. Consider mature height when placing purple plant catmint. Taller varieties work well mid-border, while compact types shine at the front edge.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Start by digging a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Loosen the soil at the bottom and sides. Gently remove the plant from its pot. If roots circle the bottom, tease them apart with your fingers. Place the plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill with native soil mixed with a handful of compost. Firm gently around roots. Water thoroughly to settle soil and eliminate air pockets. Apply a thin layer of mulch, keeping it away from the crown.

Container Growing Tips

Purple plant catmint performs beautifully in containers. Choose a pot at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes. Use a quality potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand for extra drainage. Container plants need more frequent watering and feeding than in-ground plants. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during the growing season. In cold zones, move pots to an unheated garage or bury them in the ground for winter protection. Repot every 2-3 years in spring to refresh soil and prevent root binding.

Care and Maintenance for Healthy Purple Plant Catmint

Pruning and Deadheading

Regular pruning keeps purple plant catmint looking tidy and promotes repeat blooming. After the first flush of flowers fades in early summer, shear plants back by one-third to one-half. This encourages fresh growth and a second heavy bloom in late summer. Use hedge shears or sharp pruners. Do not be timid. Purple plant catmint recovers quickly. In late fall or early spring, cut dead stems to the ground. In mild climates, evergreen basal foliage may persist through winter. Remove any winter-damaged leaves in spring.

Fertilizing Needs

Purple plant catmint rarely needs fertilizer. Rich soil produces lush foliage at the expense of flowers and essential oils. If your soil is very poor, apply a light handful of balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Compost worked into the soil at planting provides sufficient nutrients for years. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. They cause weak, floppy stems that cannot support flower spikes. Container plants benefit from monthly diluted liquid fertilizer during active growth.

Dividing Established Plants

Every 3-4 years, purple plant catmint benefits from division. The center of old clumps often dies out, leaving a ring of growth. Spring is the ideal time to divide, just as new growth emerges. Dig up the entire clump. Use a sharp spade or knife to cut into sections, each with healthy roots and shoots. Discard the woody center. Replant divisions immediately at the same depth. Water well and mulch. Divisions establish quickly and often bloom the same year.

Winter Care

In most climates, purple plant catmint needs minimal winter care. After the ground freezes, apply a light mulch of straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves. This prevents freeze-thaw cycles that heave plants from the soil. Do not mulch heavily or cover crowns deeply, as this promotes rot. In spring, pull mulch away from crowns as new growth appears. In zones 3-4, a slightly deeper mulch provides extra insurance. Container plants need protection in zones 6 and colder.

Common Problems and Solutions

Floppy Stems and Leggy Growth

The most common complaint about purple plant catmint is floppy, sprawling stems. This usually results from too much shade, rich soil, overwatering, or lack of pruning. The solution is simple. Move plants to full sun if possible. Stop fertilizing. Reduce watering. Shear plants back hard after the first bloom. For chronically floppy varieties, install grow-through supports early in spring. Peony rings or homemade twig supports work well and become invisible as foliage fills in.

Powdery Mildew

In humid conditions with poor air circulation, purple plant catmint may develop powdery mildew. This appears as white, powdery patches on leaves. While rarely fatal, it looks unsightly. Prevention is easier than treatment. Space plants properly. Water at soil level, not overhead. Thin crowded stems to improve airflow. If mildew appears, remove affected leaves. Spray with a homemade solution of 1 tablespoon baking soda plus 1 teaspoon horticultural oil per gallon of water. Neem oil also works. Resistant varieties like ‘Walker’s Low’ rarely suffer serious mildew.

Root Rot

Root rot strikes purple plant catmint in poorly draining soil, especially during wet winters. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and eventual plant death. Prevention starts with site selection. Plant in well-draining soil or raised beds. Amend heavy clay with compost and coarse sand. Avoid low spots where water collects. If root rot is caught early, dig the plant, trim rotted roots, and replant in improved soil. Unfortunately, advanced cases usually require plant replacement.

Pest Issues

Purple plant catmint repels most pests with its strong aroma. However, a few insects may occasionally appear. Aphids sometimes cluster on new growth in spring. Blast them off with a strong water spray or treat with insecticidal soap. Spider mites may attack during hot, dry weather. Increase humidity with regular misting. Slugs and snails occasionally nibble young foliage. Use beer traps or diatomaceous earth. Cats themselves can damage plants by rolling on them repeatedly. Place decorative stakes or chicken wire around young plants until established.

Using Purple Plant Catmint in Garden Design

Border and Bed Planting

Purple plant catmint excels in mixed perennial borders. Its soft gray-green foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for brighter flowers. Plant it in drifts of three, five, or seven for maximum impact. The purple flower spikes create a hazy cloud of color that blends beautifully with almost any color scheme. Pair purple plant catmint with roses for a classic combination. The catmint hides bare rose canes while complementing rose blooms. Other excellent companions include salvia, coneflower, black-eyed Susan, ornamental grasses, and yarrow.

Rock Gardens and Slopes

The drought tolerance and low growth habit of compact purple plant catmint varieties make them perfect for rock gardens and sunny slopes. They cascade gracefully over stones and stabilize soil on banks. Plant them in crevices between rocks where their roots find cool moisture. The purple flowers contrast beautifully with gray stone. On slopes, space plants closer together to form a continuous mat that prevents erosion. ‘Little Trudy’ and ‘Purple Haze’ are especially suited for these challenging spots.

Herb and Kitchen Gardens

While primarily ornamental, purple plant catmint belongs in herb gardens too. The leaves make a pleasant minty tea with calming properties. Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor. Dry them in small bundles hung upside down in a dark, airy place. Store dried leaves in airtight jars away from light. Use catmint tea as a relaxing evening drink. The flowers are edible too. Sprinkle them on salads or use as garnish. Plant purple plant catmint near vegetables to deter pests naturally. It repels aphids, squash bugs, and flea beetles.

Container Combinations

Purple plant catmint shines in container gardens. Its mounding habit fills pots beautifully, and the trailing stems soften edges. Combine with upright plants like purple fountain grass or angelonia for height. Add trailing plants such as sweet potato vine or calibrachoa to spill over edges. For a monochromatic purple theme, pair with purple petunias, verbena, and heliotrope. For contrast, try yellow marigolds, orange zinnias, or white bacopa. Remember that container plants need more water and fertilizer than in-ground plants.

Pollinator and Wildlife Gardens

Few plants attract pollinators as reliably as purple plant catmint. The nectar-rich flowers feed bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and hummingbirds from late spring through fall. Plant it in pollinator gardens alongside other nectar sources like bee balm, butterfly weed, and asters. The long bloom period provides consistent food when other flowers fade. Purple plant catmint also supports beneficial predatory insects that control garden pests. Avoid pesticides on or near catmint to protect these valuable visitors.

Harvesting and Using Purple Plant Catmint

For Cat Enjoyment

Most cats go crazy for purple plant catmint. The compound nepetalactone triggers a euphoric response in 70-80% of cats. Kittens under six months and some senior cats show little interest. Sensitivity is hereditary. To provide fresh catmint, simply let your cat visit the garden. Or harvest stems, dry them, and stuff into cloth toys. Dried catmint retains potency for months. Refresh toys periodically. Some cats eat catmint, which is harmless in small amounts. Large quantities may cause mild stomach upset.

For Human Use

Humans have used catmint medicinally for centuries. The leaves contain compounds with mild sedative, antispasmodic, and digestive properties. Catmint tea helps with anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and upset stomach. Pregnant women should avoid medicinal doses. To make tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons dried leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten if desired. The flavor is pleasantly minty with subtle citrus notes. Fresh leaves can be added to salads or used as garnish. Always identify plants with certainty before consuming.

Drying and Storing

Harvest purple plant catmint stems just as flowers begin to open. This is when essential oil content peaks. Cut stems in the morning after dew dries but before heat of day. Bundle 5-10 stems with rubber bands. Hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area. A closet, attic, or garage works well. Drying takes 1-2 weeks. Leaves should crumble easily when fully dry. Strip leaves from stems. Store in airtight glass jars away from light and heat. Label with date. Properly stored, dried catmint retains quality for a year.

Propagation Methods for More Purple Plant Catmint

Division

Division is the easiest and most reliable way to propagate purple plant catmint. As mentioned earlier, divide established clumps every 3-4 years in spring. Each division should have several healthy shoots and a good root system. Replant immediately. Water well. Divisions establish quickly and bloom the same season. This method maintains the exact characteristics of the parent plant. It also rejuvenates old, woody clumps.

Stem Cuttings

Take softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Choose healthy, non-flowering stems. Cut 4-6 inch sections just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves, leaving 2-3 pairs at the top. Dip cut ends in rooting hormone powder. Plant in moist perlite, vermiculite, or sandy potting mix. Cover with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. Place in bright, indirect light. Roots develop in 2-3 weeks. Gradually acclimate to normal conditions. Pot up and grow on before planting out.

Seed Starting

Purple plant catmint grows easily from seed, though named cultivars may not come true. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Sow on the surface of moist seed-starting mix. Do not cover. Light aids germination. Keep at 65-70°F. Germination takes 7-14 days. Provide bright light. Transplant seedlings to individual pots when they have two sets of true leaves. Harden off before planting outdoors after frost danger passes. Direct sowing works too. Scatter seeds on prepared soil in spring. Press lightly. Keep moist until germination.

Layering

Simple layering takes advantage of purple plant catmint’s natural tendency to root where stems touch soil. In spring, select a low, flexible stem. Bend it to the ground. Make a small nick on the underside where it contacts soil. Bury that section 1-2 inches deep. Pin with a landscape staple or rock. Keep moist. Roots form in 4-6 weeks. Sever from parent plant once rooted. Dig up and transplant. This method works well for increasing plants without disturbing the mother clump.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Early spring brings the first signs of life. Remove winter mulch from crowns. Cut back any remaining dead stems to ground level. Apply a thin layer of compost around plants. Divide overcrowded clumps. Plant new purple plant catmint. Watch for aphids on new growth. Water if spring is dry. Enjoy the first flush of flowers in late spring.

Summer

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom. Shear plants back by half after first bloom fades. Water during extended drought. Monitor for spider mites in hot weather. Harvest stems for drying. Enjoy the second bloom period in late summer. Watch butterflies and bees visit daily.

Fall

Stop fertilizing. Reduce watering as temperatures cool. Allow some flowers to set seed if you want volunteers. Cut back foliage after hard frost if desired, or leave for winter interest. Apply light winter mulch after ground freezes. Plant new catmint in early fall in mild climates.

Winter

Purple plant catmint rests. In cold zones, ensure mulch is in place after ground freezes. Brush heavy snow off plants to prevent breakage. Avoid walking on frozen plants. Plan next year’s garden. Order new varieties. Dream of spring blooms.

Companion Planting with Purple Plant Catmint

Best Flower Companions

Purple plant catmint plays well with many perennials. Roses top the list. The catmint’s mounding habit covers bare rose legs. Purple flowers complement pink, white, yellow, and red roses. Salvias share similar needs and bloom times. Try Salvia nemorosa ‘May Night’ for a purple-on-purple effect. Coneflowers add bold daisy flowers above the catmint haze. Black-eyed Susans bring cheerful gold. Ornamental grasses like feather reed grass provide vertical contrast. Yarrow offers flat flower heads in many colors. All thrive in the same sunny, well-drained conditions.

Vegetable Garden Partners

Plant purple plant catmint around vegetable beds as a living pest deterrent. It repels aphids, flea beetles, squash bugs, and cabbage moths. Interplant with tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and brassicas. The strong aroma masks vegetable scents that attract pests. Beneficial insects drawn to catmint flowers prey on vegetable pests. Just keep catmint far enough from vegetables to avoid competition. A border planting works perfectly.

Plants to Avoid

Purple plant catmint has few enemies, but avoid planting near moisture-loving plants like astilbe, hosta, or ferns. Their water needs conflict. Do not plant where aggressive spreaders like mint or bee balm will overwhelm it. Avoid deep shade under large trees. Catmint needs sun to thrive.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Plant Not Flowering

If your purple plant catmint produces lots of leaves but few flowers, check these factors. Insufficient sun is the top cause. Plants need 6+ hours direct sun. Excess nitrogen fertilizer promotes leaves over flowers. Stop fertilizing. Overcrowding reduces air circulation and light penetration. Divide or thin plants. Improper pruning timing can remove flower buds. Prune only after flowering. Young plants may not bloom heavily their first year. Be patient.

Center Die-Out

Older purple plant catmint clumps often develop a dead center with growth only at the edges. This is natural. The solution is division. Dig the clump in spring. Discard the woody center. Replant vigorous outer sections. This rejuvenates the plant and gives you free plants. Regular division every 3-4 years prevents this issue entirely.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellow leaves usually indicate water issues. Overwatering in poorly draining soil causes root rot and yellowing. Improve drainage. Underwatering in extreme heat also yellows leaves. Water deeply. Nutrient deficiency rarely causes yellowing in catmint. If soil is extremely poor, a light feed may help. Check for spider mites, which cause stippled yellowing.

Aggressive Spreading

While not invasive like true mints, purple plant catmint slowly expands. If it encroaches on neighbors, dig out unwanted sections in spring. Install deep edging to contain roots. Choose clumping varieties like ‘Walker’s Low’ over spreading types. Regular division controls size.

Frequently Asked Questions About Purple Plant Catmint

Is purple plant catmint the same as catnip?

No. Both belong to the genus Nepeta and contain nepetalactone, but they are different species. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is grown for cats. Purple plant catmint refers to ornamental species like Nepeta x faassenii and Nepeta racemosa prized for garden beauty.

Will purple plant catmint survive winter in my zone?

Most varieties are hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Some tolerate zone 9 with afternoon shade. Good drainage is crucial for winter survival. Wet soil kills more catmint than cold.

How do I keep my cat from destroying the plant?

Place decorative stakes, chicken wire cages, or thorny branches around young plants until established. Mature plants tolerate some cat attention. Provide a separate catnip plant as a sacrificial offering.

Can I grow purple plant catmint indoors?

It is challenging. Catmint needs full sun, which most windows cannot provide. It also needs a winter dormancy period. Grow lights and cool winter temperatures might work, but it is best grown outdoors.

Why is my catmint flopping over?

Too much shade, rich soil, overwatering, or lack of pruning causes floppy growth. Move to full sun, stop fertilizing, reduce water, and shear back after first bloom.

Is purple plant catmint deer resistant?

Yes. The strong aromatic foliage repels deer and rabbits. It is an excellent choice for gardens with browsing pressure.

Conclusion

Purple plant catmint truly earns its place in any sunny garden. Few perennials offer so much for so little effort. Months of beautiful purple flowers. Aromatic foliage that deters pests. A magnet for pollinators. A playground for cats. And all this from a plant that asks only for sun and decent drainage.

Whether you choose the classic ‘Walker’s Low’, the compact ‘Junior Walker’, or the dramatic ‘Six Hills Giant’, you will enjoy years of reliable performance. Plant it along paths where brushing against it releases sweet fragrance. Mass it on slopes for erosion control. Tuck it into rock gardens. Combine it with roses for a timeless pairing. Grow it in containers on sunny patios.

Start with one plant this spring. Watch it grow. Share divisions with friends. Brew a calming cup of catmint tea. Laugh as neighborhood cats discover their new favorite spot. Purple plant catmint gives back far more than it asks. Your garden, your pollinators, and your cats will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does purple plant catmint come back every year?

Yes, purple plant catmint is a hardy perennial that returns reliably each spring in USDA zones 3-8. With proper drainage, it lives for many years and often improves with age.

Will all cats react to purple plant catmint?

About 70-80% of cats respond to the nepetalactone in catmint. Sensitivity is genetic. Kittens under six months and some senior cats typically show little interest.

How do I prevent powdery mildew on my catmint?

Plant in full sun with proper spacing for air circulation. Water at soil level, not overhead. Choose resistant varieties like ‘Walker’s Low’. Remove affected leaves promptly.

Can I eat purple plant catmint?

Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible. Leaves make a pleasant minty tea with calming properties. Flowers add color to salads. Always confirm plant identity before consuming.

Why is my catmint turning yellow and dying?

Yellowing usually indicates overwatering or poor drainage leading to root rot. Ensure soil drains well. Reduce watering. In extreme heat, underwatering can also cause yellowing.

How do I propagate purple plant catmint?

Divide established clumps in spring every 3-4 years. Take softwood cuttings in early summer. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Layer low stems by pinning them to soil.