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Description
Nepeta Sibirica, also known as Siberian catmint, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to Asia and Europe. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is known for its striking blue-purple flowers and fragrant foliage. This plant is a popular choice among gardeners because of its low maintenance requirements and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Nepeta |
Appearance
Nepeta Sibirica grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its leaves are gray-green and have a soft, velvety texture. The flowers bloom in early summer and continue into fall, attracting pollinators to the garden. The flowers are a beautiful shade of blue-purple and are arranged in spikes that rise above the foliage. Nepeta Sibirica is a clump-forming plant and can be used as a groundcover or as a border plant.
Care Guide
Nepeta Sibirica is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this hardy perennial:- Water: Nepeta Sibirica prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Nepeta Sibirica does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Nepeta Sibirica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Nepeta Sibirica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will not bloom as heavily.- Hardiness Zones: Nepeta Sibirica is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nepeta Sibirica is a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In addition, Nepeta Sibirica can be affected by powdery mildew, which can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Nepeta Sibirica is native to Asia and Europe and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including drought and poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nepeta Sibirica deer resistant?
A: Yes, Nepeta Sibirica is deer resistant.
Q: Can Nepeta Sibirica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Nepeta Sibirica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Nepeta Sibirica be pruned?
A: Nepeta Sibirica does not require frequent pruning. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or begins to flop over, it can be pruned back by one-third in the early summer.
Q: How long does Nepeta Sibirica bloom?
A: Nepeta Sibirica blooms from early summer to fall.
Related Plants
– Nepeta x faassenii (Catmint)- Nepeta cataria (Catnip)- Nepeta racemosa (Catmint)- Nepeta grandiflora (Giant Catmint)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Nepeta sibirica. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b558- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Nepeta sibirica. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nepeta-sibirica/- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Nepeta sibirica. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7992/nepeta-sibirica/details
