Catnip Nepeta cataria
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as catnip has a distinguishing appearance characterized by its square-shaped stem, which is typical of the mint family to which it belongs. The stems are often covered in a fine down, giving them a slightly fuzzy texture. Catnip's leaves are heart or oval-shaped, with scalloped edges, issuing a soft and downy feeling to the touch. These green leaves can also have a hint of gray or silver, especially on their undersides, which is due to the fine hairs present. Catnip flowers are small and showy, predominantly white with spots of purple or pink and arranged in clusters. The blooms typically form in spikes at the tips of the stems, creating a bottlebrush effect that is attractive to many pollinators. The plant emits a distinctive aroma, especially when its leaves or stems are crushed, a fragrance that is famously appealing to cats. Overall, catnip has a casual, sprawling habit, with its stems and leaves creating a somewhat lush and untamed appearance. It is this combination of visually pleasing attributes and its signature scent that makes catnip a favorite, both for garden aesthetics and for feline enjoyment.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Catnip, Catmint, Catswort, Field Balm.
Common names
Cataria vulgaris, Glechoma cataria, Nepeta elliptica, Nepeta eriocarpa, Nepeta integra, Nepeta intermedia, Nepeta mussinii, Nepeta nepetella, Nepeta parviflora, Nepeta podostachys, Nepeta pseudocataria, Nepeta rivularis, Nepeta sibirica.
ToxicityTo humans
Catnip, commonly known as Nepeta cataria, is generally not toxic to humans. Ingesting catnip in small quantities, such as when used in herbal teas, is usually safe. However, consuming large amounts could potentially cause side effects due to the presence of various compounds in the plant. These could include headache, stomach upset, or feelings of being unwell. It is not common for these symptoms to be severe, and catnip is widely considered non-toxic to humans.
To pets
Catnip is non-toxic to most household pets, including cats and dogs. In fact, it is famously known for its effect on cats, which can include behaviors such as rolling, pawing, purring, and hyperactivity due to a natural chemical in the plant that can affect cats' behavior. Most cats enjoy the herb without any harmful effects. However, if a pet ingests a large amount of catnip, it could potentially cause a mild upset stomach or diarrhea. Overall, catnip is considered safe and is often used as a recreational herb for cats.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Europe Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is known for its ability to attract bees and butterflies, which is beneficial for garden pollination.
- Repels certain insects: The plant emits a scent that can repel undesirable insects such as mosquitoes and cockroaches, making it a natural pest control.
- Decorative use: With its pretty, delicate flowers and lush foliage, catnip can be used to add ornamental value to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary use: While not commonly used for human consumption, catnip leaves can be used to make herbal teas or as a seasoning in some recipes.
- Recreational use for cats: Catnip has a well-known effect on cats, causing a temporary state of euphoria, which can be an enriching experience for indoor cats.
- Companion planting: Catnip can be planted alongside certain vegetables and herbs to enhance growth and flavor due to its ability to attract beneficial insects and repel pests.
- Soil improvement: As a hardy perennial, catnip can help condition the soil, improve its structure, and reduce erosion in the garden.
Medical Properties- Anxiolytic: Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has mild sedative properties that may help reduce anxiety.
- Sleep Aid: It is sometimes used to promote relaxation and sleep due to its mild sedative effects.
- Antispasmodic: Catnip has been traditionally used to relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
- Diaphoretic: The plant can induce sweating and has been used to help reduce fevers.
- Digestive Aid: Catnip has been used to ease digestive issues such as flatulence and colic.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may have anti-inflammatory properties useful for conditions such as arthritis.
- Insect Repellent: Essential oil of catnip has shown repellent properties against certain insects.
- Mild Analgesic: Catnip has been used to alleviate minor aches and pains.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tea Additive: Catnip can be used as a flavoring in tea blends, giving them a unique taste with its minty and slightly lemony flavor profile.
- Garden Pest Repellent: Catnip plants can repel certain insects, such as aphids and squash bugs, making it a natural way to protect a garden.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners sometimes plant catnip near crops to attract beneficial insects like lacewings and ladybugs, which help control pests.
- Natural Meat Tenderizer: The leaves of catnip contain compounds that can act as a natural tenderizer for meats when used in a marinade.
- Cooking Herb: The leaves can be used fresh or dried in recipes similarly to how one might use oregano or thyme to impart a unique flavor to dishes.
- Homemade Lotions and Salves: The essential oil extracted from catnip can be used in creating soothing skin care products.
- Decorative Element in Bouquets: The delicate flowers and attractive foliage of catnip can be included in floral arrangements or as greenery in bouquets.
- Plant Dye: The leaves and flowers can be used to make a natural green dye for fabrics or crafts.
- Strewing Herb: During medieval times, catnip was strewn across floors to freshen the air when walked upon, a practice that can still be applied in modern homes.
- Relaxation Pouches: The dried leaves can be filled into small pouches or sachets to create a relaxing aroma for drawers or closets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Catnip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Catnip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Relaxation: Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is often associated with its calming and relaxing properties. In herbal medicine, it has been used to soothe the nerves and reduce stress.
- Happiness for Cats: Catnip is famously known for inducing a heightened state of happiness in cats, causing them to exhibit euphoric and playful behaviors.
- Mysticism: Historically, catnip has been used in various magical and mystical practices, often believed to be connected with love and beauty spells.
- Affection: It has symbolic connections to affection, both because of its ability to attract cats, who are often symbols of independence and selectivity in affection, and its traditional use in love potions and spells.
- Playfulness: Reflecting the behavior it induces in felines, catnip symbolizes playfulness and the encouragement of letting go of inhibitions.
WaterCatnip, commonly known as Nepeta cataria, should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this equates to watering once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions and the season. Use enough water to moisten the soil thoroughly until you see excess water begin to drain from the bottom of the pot or the planting area, which is usually around 1 to 2 gallons for an outdoor plant. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture level first to avoid overwatering. Catnip is relatively drought-tolerant once established, so it's better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
LightCatnip thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to be placed in a spot where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in excessively hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching. If grown indoors, place catnip near a sunny window where it can soak up plenty of natural light.
TemperatureCatnip grows best in a range of temperatures and can tolerate conditions from just above freezing to around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for catnip is between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive brief periods of frost, but extended exposure to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be harmful to the plant.
PruningPruning catnip helps to encourage bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Prune in the early spring or after the first bloom to promote a second flowering. Catnip should be pruned lightly by cutting back no more than one-third of the plant's height. Deadheading after flowering will help to maintain a tidy appearance and can also encourage additional blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCatnip (Nepeta cataria) thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH range from 6.1 to 7.8. A mix of garden soil, peat, perlite, and compost creates an ideal environment for catnip to grow, providing nutrients and proper aeration. Regular organic matter supplementation can enhance soil fertility and structure.
RepottingCatnip should generally be repotted every one to two years to provide fresh soil and additional space for growth. It's best to repot catnip in the spring just before the growing season begins when the plant shows signs of outgrowing its current pot.
Humidity & MistingCatnip, also known as catmint, is tolerant of diverse humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It grows well in average ambient humidity typically found in a garden setting; thus, no special humidity adjustments are needed for outdoor growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place catnip in a sunny spot and water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant catnip in full sun and well-draining soil; water as needed.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleCatnip (Nepeta cataria) begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the spring, requiring light for germination, which typically occurs in soil that is moist and well-drained. Seedlings emerge with characteristic squared stems and heart-shaped, toothed leaves that build the vegetative structure of the plant. As the plant matures, it develops branching stems and continues to grow foliage, entering the vegetative growth stage throughout the spring and early summer. By mid to late summer, catnip starts flowering, producing small, white or lavender flowers in whorls at the stem ends, which are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seeds that mature in late summer or early fall, which are then dispersed by wind or animal activity to propagate the next generation. In the winter or adverse conditions, catnip dies back if it is an annual, but can behave as a perennial in some climates, with its root system surviving to regenerate new growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Catnip, commonly known as Nepeta cataria, is typically propagated through seed sowing. The seed can be started indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date. The small seeds are lightly covered with soil since they need some light to germinate effectively. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seeds usually germinate within 7 to 10 days. Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, they can be hardened off and transplanted outside into well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. This method is straightforward and allows gardeners to produce a large number of plants efficiently.
