Catnip — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Nepeta cataria |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–90 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| Mature height (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Nepeta cataria is a bushy, square-stemmed perennial in the mint family with distinctive soft, gray-green, heart-shaped to triangular leaves with a strong, distinctive musky-minty scent, and dense spikes of small, white to pale lavender, purple-spotted flowers from June through September that are excellent bee plants; the nepetalactone compound in the foliage produces the well-known euphoric response in domestic cats, and the plant is used to stuff cat toys and promote play. As an herbal tea, catnip has mild sedative and digestive properties; it has a long history of use for insomnia, anxiety, and infant colic. Cut back hard after the first bloom flush to promote fresh growth and a second flowering.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0