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Description
Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder, also known as Catmint, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and spreads up to 45 cm wide. The leaves are grey-green in color and have a minty aroma. The flowers bloom in summer and are blue-violet in color. Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder is a great addition to any garden due to its beautiful flowers and fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Nepeta |
Appearance
Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder has a compact and bushy habit, with square stems and grey-green leaves that are oval or heart-shaped. The leaves have a slightly hairy texture and emit a minty fragrance when rubbed. The flowers are arranged in spikes and bloom in summer, producing blue-violet petals that are two-lipped, with the upper lip being hooded and the lower lip having three lobes. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder a great addition to any pollinator garden.
Care Guide
Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring should suffice.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause distortion and stunting of the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. To prevent this, ensure the soil is well-draining and water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder is native to the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It grows in rocky and mountainous areas, often in full sun. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant due to its strong scent.
Q: Can Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: How often should Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder be pruned?
A: The plant benefits from a light pruning after flowering to promote bushy growth and to prevent self-seeding.
Q: How can I propagate Nepeta Racemosa Blue Wonder?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in spring or fall, or by taking softwood or semi-hardwood stem cuttings in summer.
Related Plants
- Nepeta x faassenii ‘Walker’s Low’
- Nepeta racemosa ‘Pink Cat’
- Nepeta racemosa ‘Little Titch’
- Nepeta mussinii ‘Blue Wonder’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Nepeta racemosa ‘Blue Wonder’. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276165
- RHS. (n.d.). Nepeta racemosa ‘Blue Wonder’ (PBR). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/41509/Nepeta-racemosa-Blue-Wonder-(PBR)/Details
- The Spruce. (2021, February 11). How to Grow Nepeta Catmint Plants. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/grow-nepeta-catmint-plants-1402599
