Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Nepeta cataria is also known as catnip or catmint, it is a bushy spreading perennial with grey-green foliage and white flowers with purple, mauve or pink spots. Cats find the plant irresistible, as the name suggests, cats are attracted to the plant and will often eat the leaves or roll in the plants. Most of the plant is edible and can be used in soups or sauces or brewed into a tea.
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Planning
Difficulty
Easy
Flowering time
Summer, Spring
Fruiting time
Summer, Autumn
Harvesting
Harvest leaves to make an insect repelling spray or use freshly cut leaves as a mulch between rows of vegetables.
Propagation
Cuttings
Take 10-15cm long cuttings and remove the leaves from the bottom half . Root in water or directly in soil.
Special features
Attracts useful insects
Repels harmful insects
Drought resistant
Special features
Origin
Europe, Middle East and China.
Natural climate
Temperate
Environment
Light
Partial Sun
Soil moisture
Moist
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PH preference
Acid
Frost hardiness
Tender
Uses
Medicinal
Herbal teas or herbal sigaretts.
Notes
Insect repellant
Personality
Family
Lamiaceae
Flower colour
White with purple, pink or mauve spots.
Scent
Mild
Problems
Some butterfly larvae feast on the leaves. Too wet conditions can lead to powdery mildew or rotting.
Related Problems
Companion plants
Tomatoes, brassicas, cereals
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Knowledge and advice
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