Raceme Catnip
Nepeta racemosaUSDA | Grow Zone
3-8Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- Moderate, tolerates dry
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, wide
Nepeta racemosa, commonly known as Raceme Catnip, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Known for its aromatic leaves and attractive flowers, it is a favorite among gardeners and pollinators alike.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Nepeta racemosa prefers well-drained soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season, water every 1-2 weeks, adjusting for rainfall. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf tips.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
It can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade may lead to leggy growth. Ideal placement includes a sunny garden bed or a south-facing patio.
Soil
Nepeta racemosa prefers a sandy or loamy soil with good drainage, ideally with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A recommended potting mix would be a blend of potting soil, sand, and perlite to enhance drainage.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels but is quite tolerant of drier conditions.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf edges and wilting.
Temperature
Nepeta racemosa thrives in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
It can tolerate light frost but should be protected from extreme heat above 90°F (32°C) during summer.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce or eliminate fertilization in the fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Nepeta racemosa in early spring before new growth begins to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears and cut back about one-third of the plant. Deadheading spent flowers can also promote additional blooming.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through stem cuttings or division.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring, remove lower leaves, and place them in a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location until roots develop. Division can be done in early spring or fall, ensuring each division has roots and foliage.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out and ensure proper drainage in the pot or garden bed.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light can lead to stretching and weak stems.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a sunnier location to encourage compact growth.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil can lead to root decay.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and improve drainage; consider repotting in fresh soil.
Pests (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
These pests can infest the plant, especially in dry conditions.
How to fix it
Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fungal diseases
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation can lead to fungal issues.
How to fix it
Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; treat with fungicides if necessary.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead stems and prepare for new growth. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and blooms.
Summer
During summer, ensure regular watering, especially during dry spells. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and monitor for pests.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Consider cutting back the plant after the first frost to prevent damage.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a cool, dry place and reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks. Protect from extreme cold if grown in pots.
Toxicity & Safety
Nepeta racemosa is non-toxic to pets and humans. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals. Always monitor pets around new plants.
Good to know
Why are my Raceme Catnip leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Nepeta racemosa can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
How often should I water my Raceme Catnip?
Water your Nepeta racemosa when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season and less frequently in winter.
What is the best light for Raceme Catnip?
Nepeta racemosa thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
How do I propagate Raceme Catnip?
You can propagate Nepeta racemosa through stem cuttings or division. For cuttings, take 4-6 inch sections in spring and place them in moist potting mix.
When should I prune my Raceme Catnip?
Prune Nepeta racemosa in early spring before new growth begins to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
What pests affect Raceme Catnip?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Is Raceme Catnip safe for pets?
Yes, Nepeta racemosa is non-toxic to pets and humans, although ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals.
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