FoodFood InformationHerbs&Spice
CATNIP (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip is a perennial herb native to Europe but now found wild in many parts
of the United States and often considered a weed here. Plants are 2-3 feet
tall with branching, upright stems similar to the mints. The leaves are
heart shaped with pointed tips and toothed edges, green on the upper sides
and a grayish color underneath. Colorful spikes of lavender or white flowers
bloom in June at the tips of the stems. With age, plants can become scraggly
and should be cut back each year after flowering to keep looking neat and
to prevent them from spreading. Another species of nepeta is N. mussinii
or cat mint. It grows in soft undulating mounds 1-2 feet high and has 3-5
inch 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 division
in the fall or spring, by layering, or from stem cuttings. For a ground
cover, set plants 12 to 18 inches apart.
In the past, catnip has been used for treating hysteria, nervousness, and
headaches. The aroma of the leaves has a well known effect on almost all
cats, making them kittenish and playful. Because cats are tempted to play
in plants of catnip growing in the garden, you may want to protect young
seedlings until they are large enough so they will not be badly damaged
by 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.