Common Names
Catnip

Botanical Name
Nepeta cataria

Plant Family
Lamiaceae

Native Range
Europe and parts of Asia.

Life Cycle
Perennial

Hardiness Zone
3-9

Habit
Clump-forming perennial. Grows to about 3ft tall in bloom. Leaves are sold grey-green and velvety like a kitten's ears. Light pink flowers.

Sun/Soil
Easy to grow and will tolerate a variety of conditions. Ideally they are given regular well-drained soil and full sun exposure. 

Germination/Sowing
The seeds germinate easily and are best sown in flats in the spring and then transplanted out once they are big enough.

Growing/Care
Plants are herbaceous and can be cut back in fall time. Catnip does not overwinter well in soggy or water-logged soil.

Harvesting
The aerial parts can be harvested in summer.

Culinary Uses
None known.

Medicinal Uses
Catnip is especially lovely as a relaxant herb for nervous tension combined with an upset stomach. The antispasmodic and carminative actions soothe and relieve digestive spasms and gas. The herb is great for colds and flus and fevers.

Catnip is fitting as a herb for children and babies that are fussy and colicky. A glycerite tincture is easily taken by children due to the sweet taste. Combines well with chamomile, mint, and lemon balm for this purpose.

The leaves have mild anesthetic properties and can be chewed to soothe tooth and gum aches. Sometimes added to smoking blends to produce euphoric effects.

A favourite of our feline friends fresh or dried.

Themes
Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Apothecary Garden, Container Garden, Low Maintenance.