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James H. Schutte
Lamiaceae
NEPETA grandiflora 'Dawn to Dusk'
Caucasus Catmint, Large-flowered Catmint
Like it parent species, ‘Dawn to Dusk’ is known as catnip for its narcotic effects on felines. It is a hardy perennial, descended from a native of the Caucasus region of eastern Europe by way of extensive breeding to yield more attractive garden forms. Its leaves are small, scalloped, and a soft gray-green color. They may or may not be felted with tiny hairs. The leaves are set opposite one another on the stems which may be straight or branched depending on how the plant is trimmed. They share a musky, subtle minty fragrance when crushed.
The small, two-lipped, tubular flowers of ‘Dawn To Dusk’ are considered the showiest form of this species. Appearing in summer, the smoky violet blooms are far more bold than their pale ancestors. They are held loosely on upright flower spikes. The flowers are highly attractive to bees. It is recommended they be severely deadheaded just as the first flush of bloom begins to fade in order to promote a second bloom and more lush foliage later in the season.
This catmint is very easy to grow but known to self-sow where conditions are right. It prefers well-drained, light soil and thrives in sandy ground. Give it full sun in beds, borders, herb gardens and containers.
8 - 1
3 - 8
A1, A2, A3, H1, H2, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Herb
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
Hybrid Origin
Acidic, Neutral
Well Drained
Loam, Sand
Drought
Fast
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
Cushion/Mound-forming
Summer
Showy
Lavender
Tan
Gray Green
Yes
No
Single
Medium
Matte
Container, Herb / Vegetable, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall
Sometimes
Butterflies
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