How to Grow Catmint Superba
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Catmint Superba
Nepeta × faassenii 'Superba'
flowerCatmint Superba is a hybrid perennial known for its profusion of lavender-blue flowers and aromatic, soft gray-green foliage. This improved cultivar of the Nepeta × faassenii hybrid offers larger blooms and more robust growth than the species. It is beloved by gardeners for its long flowering period, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators.
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Example Catmint Superba timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Catmint Superba
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Catmint Superba blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Catmint Superba dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Catmint Superba timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall plants with delicate opposite leaves emerging from soil; initial growth is relatively slow
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light or grow under lights; thin seedlings to proper spacing
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops branching stems and increasingly dense foliage; gray-green aromatic leaves become more prominent
Water moderately during dry spells; begin reducing frequency as plant establishes; pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth if desired
Budding & Early Flowering
2-3 weeksFlower buds form along stem tips; small lavender-blue flowers begin to appear in loose spikes
Maintain consistent watering during this stage; apply balanced fertilizer monthly if soil is poor; deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Full Flowering
6-10 weeks (often June to September)Plant is covered in abundant lavender-blue flowers in dense spikes; peak ornamental appeal with continuous blooms
Deadhead regularly to extend flowering season; reduce watering as plant is fully established and drought-tolerant; minimal fertilizer needed
Decline & Dormancy
Fall through winterFlowers fade and set seed; foliage remains attractive but growth slows as temperatures cool
Cut back spent flower stems by one-third; leave some seed heads for wildlife; minimal watering needed; no fertilizer required
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases; ensure good air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
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Improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply sulfur dust or baking soda spray; remove infected leaves
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and
Hand-pick; use copper barriers; encourage beneficial beetles and ground beetles; avoid mulching directly around stems
Uses
Herbal Tea & Mint Flavor
CulinaryCatmint leaves can be used fresh or dried to make a pleasant herbal tea with a minty, slightly floral flavor. The leaves are milder and more delicate than true mint, making them suitable for subtle herbal beverages. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in traditional herbalism for calming properties and to support relaxation. The plant contains volatile oils with mild sedative and digestive supporting compounds. [source]
Cat Enrichment & Feline Attraction
HouseholdLike other catmints, Nepeta Superba is attractive to cats and can be used fresh or dried as an enrichment herb. The scent stimulates feline interest, similar to catnip, making it valuable for cat toys and gardens. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeCatmint Superba is an excellent nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its long flowering season provides crucial forage during summer months when other plants may be less productive. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe attractive lavender-blue flower spikes are excellent for fresh or dried flower arrangements. Catmint air-dries beautifully and retains color, making it valuable for crafts, wreaths, and long-lasting bouquets. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Catmint Superba is grown as an ornamental perennial rather than harvested for food or herb use. Cut fresh flower spikes for arrangements in early morning when blooms are fully open. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the season to maximize blooming. In fall, allow some seed heads to remain for wildlife and self-seeding. Cut back the entire plant by half to two-thirds in late fall or early spring to promote vigor and bushier growth in the next season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Catmint Superba is a hybrid cultivar (Nepeta × faassenii 'Superba') that combines traits from Nepeta nepetella and Nepeta racemosa, resulting in superior vigor and flowering compared to either parent species.
- 🌱 The common name 'catmint' comes from the plant's effect on cats, similar to catnip (Nepeta cataria), though Catmint Superba's feline-attractant properties are generally milder than true catnip.
- 🌱 Catmint Superba can flower for 3-4 months continuously if deadheaded regularly, making it one of the longest-blooming perennials in the garden and an exceptional value for season-long color.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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