Small spreading mounds with a cloud of lavender blue spikes covering the plant when in full bloom. The small oval leaves are a soft greenish gray that look a bit wrinkled. Persian Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) has a long blooming period, and its fragrant flowers are good source of nectar for butterflies, hummingbirds and bees. Catmint is also attractive to cats, but less than catnip. It is a popular perennial to grow in rock and herb gardens, borders, and as an edging plant. It grows to a maximum height of approximately 30cm. It is a drought tolerant plant that thrives in full sun and somewhat dry, well-drained soil, but easily tolerates partial shade.
Culinary Uses
- This attractive, aromatic herb, is mainly grown for its minty, spicy flavoring.
- They are used as a garnish in many deserts and savory dishes as well.
Growing Persian Catmint
Indoor Sowing: Late Winter and Early Spring.
Direct Sowing: Spring and Autumn.
- Seeds can be sown indoors, or directly outdoors as well.
- If started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost.
- Surface sow the seeds directly on the surface of the soil.
- Do not cover the seeds with soil or barely cover with a very thin layer of soil, as the seeds require light to germinate properly.
- Keep soil moist by using a spray bottle or watering from the bottom of the container.
- Germination takes place within roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing.
- Transplant or direct sow into the garden when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
- The plant can be grown in full sunlight to partial shade and prefer a soil that is loose, but well drained.
- Grows well in containers.












