15 Plants With Scented Leaves

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Plants with "mint" in their names have some of the most strongly scented leaves, and catmint is a long-time favorite because its fragrant foliage is supplemented by attractive flowers. There are different species and cultivars, and their height varies. Consequently, how they're used differs. Nepeta x faassenii 'Six Hills Giant' is relatively tall (25 to 35 inches) and works well as a small hedge. Nepeta racemosa 'Little Titch' is smaller (8 to 10 inches) and works better as a ground cover.

Catmint isn't fussy to grow. Just give this drought-tolerant perennial good drainage and sufficient sun. Most of its maintenance comes in the form of cutting. In spring, prune off dead branches left over from last season. Then shear back the bigger varieties after the initial bloom to promote re-blooming. Thereafter, deadhead the flowers whenever they fade. Such a regimen will give you blooms into the fall.