Nepeta racemosa (N. mussinii) 'Alba': Elegant White Catnip Plant for Garden and Biodiversity

Nepeta racemosa, also known as N. mussinii, and specifically the cultivar 'Alba', is an ornamental variety of catnip with striking white flowers. This perennial belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its compact growth, long-lasting blooms, and attractive silver-green foliage. Nepeta racemosa 'Alba' is both a beautiful garden plant and a valuable plant for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a perfect choice for sustainable and biodiverse gardens.

Characteristics of Nepeta racemosa 'Alba'

Nepeta racemosa 'Alba' is distinguished by its bright white flowers, which create a fresh contrast with the gray-green, aromatic foliage. The plant grows low and compact, usually to 20–30 cm tall, making it ideal for borders, rock gardens, patio containers, and as groundcover. The attractive foliage remains green throughout the growing season, and the leaves have a light herbal scent that attracts cats and can repel pests.

Flowering and Maintenance

This cultivar blooms from late spring to early autumn and produces long spikes of white flowers that continually provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Nepeta racemosa 'Alba' is a low-maintenance plant: it is drought-tolerant, prefers well-drained soil, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. For long-lasting blooms, it's recommended to prune back the spent stems after the first flush; this encourages new blooms and keeps the plant compact.

Garden and Landscape Use

Nepeta racemosa 'Alba' is a versatile plant for gardens and landscaping. Its low, spreading habit makes it ideal for:

• Ground cover: covers surfaces in borders and prevents weed growth.

• Edging plant: creates a soft, fragrant border along paths and patios.

• Rock garden plant: adds elegance and color contrast between stones and gravel.

• Container plant: grows well in pots and raised beds, perfect for balconies and patios.

Besides its aesthetic value, Nepeta racemosa 'Alba' is an ecologically important plant. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators, contributing to biodiversity in the garden. The aromatic foliage also acts as a natural insect repellent.

Health and Cat Benefits

Like other Nepeta species, N. racemosa 'Alba' contains nepetalactone, a substance that attracts cats and can encourage them to play and roll. Although this species has slightly milder effects than traditional catnip (Nepeta cataria), it remains a favorite among cat lovers who want to entertain their pets naturally.

For humans, the aromatic leaf has a mild sedative effect and can be used in small quantities in herbal blends or as an ornamental herb in culinary applications, although it is mainly valued for its ornamental value and ecological contribution.