Common Name:

General Information

Nepeta multifida is a perennial plant with woody rhizomes and numerous erect stems that are more or less woody, at least near the base; it can grow up to 40cm tall[].
The plant is the source of an essential oil.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

Asia - from western Siberia, Mongolia and northern China to Russian Far East and Korea

Habitat

Margins of pine forests, grassy slopes, wet grasslands; at elevations from 1,300 - 2,000 metres[]. Steppe zone and adjacent parts of forest zone, meadows, exposed grassy and stony slopes of river banks, hills and mountains[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.35 m
Pollinators	Bees, Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Nepeta species generally grow best in a sunny position and a well-drained soil. Many are found in poor soils in the wild, and have a bushier growth habit in more fertile soils[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

An essential oil is obtained from the plant[]. A translucent, pale yellow oil that has a pleasant, delicate peppermint odour; it is suitable for perfuming soap[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown in the autumn, in situ if possible. Germination of spring sown seed can be erratic[]. The seed is best sown in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer.
Division of clumps in the autumn or spring, when the plant is dormant or just coming into growth[].
Stem tip or softwood cuttings can be taken in the spring or early summer[].