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CATNIP


CATNIP (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip is a perennial herb native to Europe but now found wild in many partsof the United States and often considered a weed here. Plants are 2-3 feettall with branching, upright stems similar to the mints. The leaves areheart shaped with pointed tips and toothed edges, green on the upper sidesand a grayish color underneath. Colorful spikes of lavender or white flowersbloom in June at the tips of the stems. With age, plants can become scragglyand should be cut back each year after flowering to keep looking neat andto prevent them from spreading. Another species of nepeta is N. mussiniior cat mint. It grows in soft undulating mounds 1-2 feet high and has 3-5inch lavender blue flowers in loose spikes at the ends of the stems.

Give catnip a light, rich soil in sun or partial shade, and moderate moisture.Sow seeds in early spring or late fall. You also can propagate by root divisionin the fall or spring, by layering, or from stem cuttings. For a groundcover, set plants 12 to 18 inches apart.

In the past, catnip has been used for treating hysteria, nervousness, andheadaches. The aroma of the leaves has a well known effect on almost allcats, making them kittenish and playful. Because cats are tempted to playin plants of catnip growing in the garden, you may want to protect youngseedlings until they are large enough so they will not be badly damagedby a cat's rambunctiousness.

The leaves are a treat for your cat and can be given to him fresh or dried.A tea is also made from the leaves that is said to be relaxing and soothing.