Catnip

Catmint, Kattekruid (Afr.)

Catnip is a bushy spreading perennial with grey-green foliage and produces white flowers with purple, mauve or pink spots. Cats find the plant irresistible.

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

Including butterflies.

Repels harmful insects

It repels mosquitoes and flies.

Geography

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.

Powdery mildew

Erysiphaceae

Companion plants

Tomatoes, brassicas, cereals