Catnip

Catnip, also known as catmint, is a hardy aromatic perennial with fragrant foliage and pale flowers that attract bees and butterflies.

Format

Hardiness Zone 3

Difficulty level Easy

Family Lamiaceae

Nepeta cataria, also known as catnip or catmint, is an aromatic perennial plant recognized for its grayish-green, slightly downy foliage and its distinctive fragrance that is very popular with cats. It forms a soft and natural clump, with small white to pale lavender flowers that bring a rustic touch to herb gardens, perennial borders, and naturalized landscapes. Its soft and light appearance pairs very well with lavenders, salvias, yarrows, grasses, and other full-sun plants.

Easy to grow, Nepeta cataria prefers a sunny to lightly semi-shaded location, in well-drained, light, and moderately fertile soil. Once well established, it tolerates drought quite well and requires little maintenance, making it an excellent perennial for low-maintenance gardens. It can be planted directly in the ground or grown in pots, especially if you want to better control its location or protect it from overly enthusiastic cats. Pruning after flowering helps keep the plant more compact and encourages fresh new growth.

Traditionally recognized as an aromatic and medicinal plant, Nepeta cataria is also very useful for attracting pollinators to the garden. Its melliferous flowers add biodiversity to landscapes, while its fragrant foliage makes it an original plant for collections of herbs and useful plants. Robust, decorative, and easy to maintain, it is ideal for creating a vibrant, natural, and fragrant garden, for both humans and cats.