Catmint Nepeta latifolia
ABOUT
Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as catmint or broadleaf catnip, is a perennial herb with a distinctive appearance. It has a bushy growth habit with branching stems that are square in profile. The leaves of catmint possess a heart-shaped base, appear on the stems in an opposite arrangement, and are softly textured with a fine layer of downy hair. These leaves have scalloped edges and a strong, fragrant scent when crushed or brushed against. The plant is well-known for its spikes of small blooms that cluster densely together, creating a vivid display. The flowers are typically purple or lavender in color and are tubular with a lipped appearance, akin to many mint-family relatives. They possess a two-lipped corolla, with the upper lip acting as a hood over the lower lip, which holds the plant's reproductive parts. Catmint also has a notable attraction to cats, who may be drawn to the plant and exhibit playful or relaxed behavior when in its vicinity. Overall, without reference to its size in measurements, catmint presents as a bushy, fragrant herb with small, tubular purple flowers and soft, heart-shaped leaves that bring both visual and sensory appeal to gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Broadleaf Catnip, Giant Catnip, Catmint.
Common names
Glechoma grandis, Nepeta tuberosa, Glechoma latifolia
ToxicityTo humans
Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Catmint, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is often used in gardens for its aromatic leaves and is known for its mild sedative effect when its leaves are made into a tea. Ingesting parts of the plant does not typically lead to poisoning or serious side effects; however, it's always advisable to use caution and consult with a medical or botanical expert when dealing with plant consumption as individual reactions can vary.
To pets
Nepeta latifolia, commonly referred to as Catmint, is generally regarded as safe for pets, including cats and dogs. This plant is particularly famous for its effects on cats due to the presence of nepetalactone, which can cause temporary behavioral changes such as euphoria, rolling, and purring. While not toxic, excessive ingestion could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If such symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Catmint, adds ornamental value to gardens with its lush foliage and beautiful purple flowers which can enhance the visual beauty of landscape design.
- Attracting Wildlife: Catmint is known for its ability to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many plants in an ecosystem.
- Drought Resistance: This plant is relatively drought-resistant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and in areas with water restrictions or low rainfall.
- Aromatic Foliage: Catmint emits a pleasant fragrance when its leaves are crushed or brushed against, which can add a sensory experience to gardens and outdoor living spaces.
- Easy to Grow: Catmint is known for being easy to cultivate and maintain, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant.
- Culinary Uses: The leaves of Catmint can be used in culinary dishes as a herb, providing a minty flavor similar to other mint species.
- Garden Border Plant: Due to its compact and mounding growth habit, Catmint works well as a border plant, providing a natural edge to garden beds and walkways.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Nepeta latifolia may help in relieving spasms or cramps within the body.
- Anxiolytic: It is believed to have properties that reduce anxiety.
- Diuretic: The plant may be used to promote the increased production of urine, assisting in detoxification and renal function.
- Carminative: It may help in expelling gas from the stomach or intestines to relieve flatulence or abdominal pain.
- Sedative: Nepeta latifolia may have a mild sedative effect, helping to induce relaxation or sleep.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Catmint, can be used as an insect repellent. The aromatic properties of this plant can help deter bugs and insects when planted in gardens or when extracts are applied to the skin.
- The leaves of Catmint can be infused into oils or vinegars to create aromatic dressings or marinades, adding a unique, herbaceous flavor to culinary dishes.
- Dried Catmint leaves are often used in potpourri mixes because of their pleasing fragrance; they can also be included in sachets to freshen up drawers and closets.
- Catmint can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of colors from greens to browns depending on the mordant used.
- Due to its robust and fast-growing nature, Catmint can be employed in soil erosion control efforts, helping to stabilize soil and reduce runoff.
- The plant may be used as a companion plant in gardens, as it is believed to enhance the growth and flavor of certain vegetables and herbs.
- Catmint can be used in landscaping as ground cover to create a lush, low-maintenance carpet that provides a continuous bloom throughout the growing season.
- The flowers of the Catmint can be harvested and used as organic confetti for festivities and eco-friendly events.
- Gardeners might plant Catmint to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, assisting in pollination of garden crops and ornamental plants.
- Catmint twigs and leaves can be incorporated into homemade natural wreaths and other decorative items, adding a rustic and aromatic appeal.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Catmint is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Catmint is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation: Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Catnip, is often associated with relaxation due to its sedative effects on cats, which can metaphorically extend to humans, symbolizing the ability to let go of stress and find peace.
- Playfulness: Because catnip can cause an almost euphoric response in felines, it embodies the spirit of playfulness and joy, reminding us of the importance of play and leisure in our lives.
- Connection with Animals: Catnip's unique effect on cats also symbolizes a deep connection with animals and nature, pointing to the mysterious and special bond humans can have with the animal kingdom.
- Herbal Healing: As an herb with various medicinal properties for humans, including its use in treating fever, insomnia, and digestion issues, catnip symbolizes the healing power of nature and natural remedies.
WaterWater Catmint, the most common name for Nepeta latifolia, deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of about an inch. Apply approximately one to two gallons of water for mature plants, less for smaller or newly planted specimens, adjusting for rainfall. During hot, dry spells, increase the frequency to twice a week but be cautious not to overwater as Catmint dislikes soggy conditions. In winter, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture due to dormancy.
LightCatmint thrives in full sun to partial shade, so place it in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate some light shade, too much will lead to sparse foliage and fewer blooms, so opt for a brighter location to promote healthy growth and flowering.
TemperatureCatmint prefers temperate conditions and can endure temperatures ranging from 30 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It handles cold down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit without much damage but may require protection from frost. The ideal growing temperature for Catmint is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which encourages vigorous growth and blooms.
PruningPrune Catmint after the first flush of flowers fades, typically in late spring or early summer, to encourage a compact habit and a second bloom. Cut the plant back by about a third to promote rejuvenation. The best time for a more significant prune is in early spring just as new growth starts to appear, at this time cut back to a few inches above ground level.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Nepeta latifolia, commonly known as Broadleaf Catmint, a well-draining soil mix is essential, combining garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand. The ideal soil pH for Broadleaf Catmint should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingBroadleaf Catmint should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish the nutrients in the soil and to accommodate root growth. It’s best done in the spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingBroadleaf Catmint prefers average humidity levels around 40-50%. As a hardy plant, it adapts to the typical humidity found in most outdoor conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, and space well.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNepeta latifolia, commonly known as Broadleaf Catnip, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are favorable. After germination, it develops into a seedling, with characteristic heart-shaped, green to gray-green leaves. The plant grows vegetatively during its initial stages, expanding its root system and foliage through the spring and early summer. Once mature, Broadleaf Catnip produces spikes of small, violet-blue flowers from mid to late summer, attracting bees and butterflies. After pollination, flowers develop into seed capsules, which eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. In the fall, the plant's above-ground parts may die back, with the perennial root system going dormant over winter, ready to regrow in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Catmint, commonly known as Nepeta latifolia, is best propagated in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most active. The most popular method of propagation for catmint is by stem cuttings. To propagate, a gardener should select a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long with several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are then stripped off, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. This treated cutting is placed in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture, ensuring that the leaf nodes where the leaves were removed are buried. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the pot should be placed in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted into the garden.
