Siberian catmint facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Siberian catmint |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Nepeta
|
| Species: |
sibirica
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
Nepeta sibirica, also known as the Siberian catmint, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the mint family, called Lamiaceae. This plant naturally grows in Siberia, a large region in northern Asia.
Contents
Discovering Siberian Catmint
Siberian catmint is a special plant that can grow quite tall, up to about 3 feet (1 meter). It can also spread out to about 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide. This plant stands upright and has a lovely smell, like many plants in the mint family.
What Does "Herbaceous Perennial" Mean?
Siberian catmint is an herbaceous perennial.
- Herbaceous means it has soft, green stems, not woody ones like a tree.
- Perennial means it lives for more than two years, coming back each spring.
Flowers Like a Dragon's Head
This plant produces beautiful violet (purple) flowers. They grow in groups called "whorls" around the stem. You can see these flowers for a long time during the summer.
One of its old names, Dracocephalum sibiricum, gives us a clue about its flowers. "Dracocephalum" means "dragon's head." So, the flowers of Siberian catmint actually look a bit like a dragon's head!
Growing Siberian Catmint
If you want to grow Siberian catmint, it likes certain conditions to be happy and healthy.
Best Soil and Sunlight
This plant prefers soil that drains water well but also stays a little moist. It loves sunny spots, especially those facing south or west, where it can get lots of sunshine.
Award-Winning Varieties
There's a special type of Siberian catmint called 'Souvenir d'André Chaudon'. This particular variety has won an important award called the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. This award means it's a great plant for gardens!
Images for kids
