Nepeta racemosa aka Persian Catmint
Taxonomy
Nepeta racemosa, also known as dwarf catnip or raceme catnip, is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to the Caucasus, Turkey, northern Iran, and Iraq. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and 45 cm wide, with gray-green, hairy, ovate leaves that have crenate margins and heart-shaped bases. When crushed or bruised, the leaves emit a highly aromatic scent. In summer, pale lilac to deep violet two-lipped flowers, measuring about 1/2" long, bloom in loose raceme-like verticillasters.
Nepeta racemosa is one of several Nepeta species that are cultivated as ornamentals. It is particularly suitable for the front of a flower border or as groundcover. The plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, as has the cultivar ‘Walker’s Low’. However, it is important to note that Nepeta cataria is the true catnip that drives house cats ecstatic, but the leaves of Nepeta racemosa are also attractive, albeit somewhat less enticing, to cats.
Dwarf catnip is a relatively rare houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and well-draining soil. The plant does not require added fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size. The Latin specific epithet racemosa means “having racemes of flowers”. Additionally, the chemical nepetalactone found in this plant is believed to have a euphoric effect on some domestic cats, as well as repelling cockroaches and mosquitoes.
Common names
Persian Catmint, Catmint, Raceme CatnipHow to care for Persian Catmint
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Persian Catmint due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Persian Catmint should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Persian Catmint loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Persian Catmint prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Humidity
The Persian Catmint does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.
Fertilizer
The Persian Catmint should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Persian Catmint’s native range is Europe, Asia, and Africa.
More info:
Wikipedia
