Short-stalked catmint (Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis)

Overview

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis, commonly known as Short-stalked catmint, stands out in the mint family due to its preference for cooler, moister conditions than many of its Mediterranean relatives. This herbaceous perennial delivers long-lasting color, featuring showy spikes of rich, true blue, trumpet-shaped flowers throughout the summer months. Gardeners appreciate this variety for its lower maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for adding reliable structure and color to garden beds.

A key feature of this compact mounding plant is its aromatic, toothed green foliage, which remains attractive even when the plant is not in full bloom. While the true catnip (Nepeta cataria) is famous for attracting felines, Nepeta subsessilis var. Sensibilis offers similar aromatic appeal, albeit generally less potent. Its adaptability across USDA Zones 4 through 8, coupled with its attractive form, secures its role as a versatile feature in perennial borders and specialized gardens.

Unlike many tough catmints, Short-stalked catmint originates from the moist mountain slopes of Japan. This means successful cultivation relies on respecting its water needs—it excels where moisture is consistent, though it offers surprising tolerance once established. Incorporating Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis into your landscape brings a refined texture and reliable blue hue that complements both formal plantings and more naturalized settings.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Lamiaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1.5-2 ft
  • Spread: 1-1.5 ft
• Bloom Time: June to September
• Bloom Description: Blue
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis is best achieved in spring or fall using average, well-drained soil amended lightly to ensure good moisture retention. Although it tolerates various soils, avoid areas that remain bone dry, as species plants prefer cool, moist foundations. Site selection is crucial: in northern regions (Zones 4-6), these plants thrive best in full sun. Conversely, move Short-stalked catmint to locations receiving light afternoon shade in the hotter South to prevent wilting, as they naturally prefer cooler mountain climes.

General care involves maintaining medium moisture levels, especially during dry spells, reflecting its native habitat on moist Japanese slopes. Fertilization is usually unnecessary if the soil is reasonably average, keeping maintenance low. To maximize bloom duration and maintain a tidy appearance, shear the flower spikes immediately after the initial flowering phase concludes.

For exceptional rebloom and a tidier, more compact shape, gardeners can prune aggressively. Cut the plant back significantly before its first major flush of flowers appears. Shear spent spikes throughout the season to encourage the production of new blue blooms, ensuring a long period of interest extending from June straight through September.

Landscape Uses

Short-stalked catmint provides excellent vertical accents and soft texture in layered plantings. Its height of nearly two feet makes it an ideal plant for the middle of a border, softening the edges of paths or hardscaping elements. It performs particularly well in designated Rain Garden sites where medium moisture is present, utilizing water runoff effectively while providing consistent color.

Beyond traditional borders, Nepeta subsessilis var. Sensibilis is suitable for rock gardens, provided the pockets retain consistent moisture, as true dry, shallow-rocky soil sites might stress this species more than other catmints. Furthermore, its aromatic foliage and appealing blue flower spikes make it a beautiful addition to informal herb gardens or naturalized plantings where it can mingle easily with other summer bloomers.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Nepeta subsessilis var. Sensibilis is a compact catmint variety features showy spikes of trumpet-shaped, 2” long, true blue flowers in dense false whorls atop square, leafy stems with aromatic, toothed, green foliage. Plants typically grow in a mound to 12-15” tall, offering a long summer bloom period. The genus name honors the city of Nepete (modern Nepi) in ancient Etruria.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Drought
• Dry Soil
• Shallow-Rocky Soil

Potential Problems

Nepeta subsessilis var. Sensibilis generally displays a strong resistance to common garden issues, reporting no serious insect or disease problems under good cultural care. Because this variety prefers consistency rather than extreme drought, avoid letting the soil get overly dry for extended periods, especially in its first year establishing roots, as this is when stress is most likely to occur. Good air circulation, achieved through proper spacing, helps prevent any potential mildew issues common to the Lamiaceae family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Short-stalked catmint suitable for?

Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis is hardy and reliable across USDA Zones 4 through 8.

How large does Short-stalked catmint grow?

This plant typically achieves a compact height between 1.5 and 2 feet tall, with a spread ranging from 1 to 1.5 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Short-stalked catmint need?

Nepeta subsessilis var. Sensibilis prefers full sun in cooler northern areas but benefits significantly from part shade, especially light afternoon shade, in hotter climates.

When does Short-stalked catmint bloom?

Expect prolific blooming from this variety beginning in June and continuing throughout September, displaying attractive blue flowers.

Conclusion

The Short-stalked catmint offers gardeners a reliable source of late-season blue color with impressively low demands on maintenance. Its attractive mound habit and tolerance for deer make Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis a practical and beautiful choice for continuous summer interest. Before planting, verify your local garden zone compatibility and ensure you can meet its requirement for consistently medium soil moisture.

Companion Planting

When selecting partners for Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis, focus on plants that thrive under similar medium moisture and sun exposures (Full sun to part shade). Because this Short-stalked catmint is native to moist slopes, excellent companions include Astilbe, Ligularia, or Hosta, especially in partial shade locations where they can share consistent watering needs. In full sun settings, pair it with plants that enjoy a mid-summer drink, such as Daylilies (Hemerocallis) or certain types of Coneflower (Echinacea), ensuring the overall soil profile remains well-drained.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring marks the renewal period for your Nepeta subsessilis var. sensibilis; remove any dead foliage from winter cleanup and consider cutting back any overly long or damaged growth before new shoots emerge. Summer is peak performance time; practice pinching or shearing the main flower spikes after they fade to encourage a second, smaller round of blooms before fall arrives. Never let the plants get bone dry during hot summer months, as this species requires more consistent hydration than many of its drought-tolerant cousins.