Common Name: Catnip
Botanical Name: Nepeta cataria
• Zone: 3-7
• Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Height: 2-3 ft.
• Width: 2-3 ft.
• Habit: Mounding
• Flower: White to pale purple, spike-like , terminal clusters
• Bloom Season: May-Sept.
• Foliage: Coarsely-toothed, triangular to ovate, gray-green leaves up to 3 in. long.
• Flavor: Minty
• Fragrance: Minty
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Average, dry to medium , well-drained
• Water: Dry to medium
• Tolerant: Dry, shallow & rocky soil, drought, air pollution, deer
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies
• Uses: Herbal tea reported to relieve anxiety, induce sleep, promote perspiration (fever/cold relief), soothe sore throats (cough suppressant) & comfort upset stomachs. Fresh leaves used in soups, stews, sauces, vegetables, & pasta. Repels aphids & squash bugs. Potpourris, Cat toys. Nepetalactone is the ingredient that attracts cats.
• Harvesting: Cut stems to the ground, hang them upside down to cure in a warm location with good air circulation. When leaves are totally dry, crumble them into bags for storage or use immediately.
• Photo: Top photo shared by Beth Mattingly of WGHS
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