Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Also known as: Catwort

Nepeta cataria, also known as catnip, is a perennial herb from the mint family. In gardens, it's valued for its decorative leaves and small, lavender-hued flowers. Catnip is famous for its unique effect on cats, often inducing a playful or relaxed state. It's frequently used in cat toys or sprinkled on items to attract and entertain cats.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Catnip

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 cm to 1 m

Spread

50 cm to 1 m

Leaf Color

Green Gray Silver

Flower Size

3 mm to 4 mm

Flower Color

White Purple Pink

Images of Catnip

Quickly Identify Catnip

Square stem, typical of mint family, 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.

Heart-shaped, coarse-toothed leaves, grey-green with visible veins.

Clusters of small, two-lipped, tubular flowers in dense whorls.

Delicate lavender to white flowers in spike-like racemes, emitting a strong fragrance.

Fine down covering entire plant, creating a soft texture.

Scientific Classification of Catnip

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Catnips

Species

Catnip

Planting and Growing of Catnip

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Catnip?

Water your Nepeta cataria about 250 ml each time. Ensure the soil is uniformly moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers slightly dry conditions between waterings, allowing the soil surface to dry out before you add more water. It's essential not to overdo the watering, as this could lead to root damage or rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Catnip? ›

What should I do if my Catnip is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Catnip? ›

How to save an overwatered Catnip? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Catnip?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Nepeta cataria ideally thrives in areas that offer full sun to partial sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. These conditions encourage lush foliage, increased aroma, and overall plant health by optimizing the photosynthetic process.

What type of environment is best for this plant? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting for this plant? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide for the plant? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Catnip?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This range provides the best conditions for optimal growth and flowering. In this temperature zone, the plant can efficiently conduct photosynthesis, ensuring its leaves remain vibrant and healthy, contributing to the strong aroma that attracts cats. Maintaining these conditions can significantly enhance the overall health and resilience of the plant.

What Soil is Best for Catnip?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Nepeta cataria thrives in well-draining soil because it prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape, thus ensuring the plant's vitality and robust growth. A nutrient-rich substrate nourishes Nepeta cataria by providing essential minerals and nutrients. This enhances growth and leads to lush, fragrant foliage, boosting the plant's natural allure. Maintaining a neutral pH level supports Nepeta cataria's absorption of nutrients and minerals. This prevents nutrient lock-out, ensuring the plant stays healthy and vibrant. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Catnip?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) typically thrives with a moderate amount of fertilizer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. For liquid applications, approximately 1 teaspoon per gallon of water every month will suffice. It's important not to over-fertilize, as catnip doesn't require excessive nutrients. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Catnip?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by identifying the dead, damaged, or diseased stems. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to carefully cut these stems back to the base. For healthy stems, trim back one-third to half of the stem's length. This encourages new growth and keeps your Nepeta cataria full and flourishing. Be sure to make cuts right above a leaf node or a set of leaves to promote lateral growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Catnip plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring, Early summer

Start by filling a seed tray with seed starting mix. Sprinkle catnip seeds over the surface and lightly cover with soil. Maintain moisture, but do not overwater to prevent damping off.

Select healthy stems and use sharp garden scissors to cut 4-6 inch sections just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a pot with moist soil.

Gently dig up an established catnip plant and carefully divide the root ball into smaller sections. Replant each section in well-drained soil, ensuring roots are covered and the plant is securely in place.

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How to Repot Catnip plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

You will know Nepeta cataria needs repotting when its roots begin to emerge through the drainage holes or when the plant's growth appears stunted. Performing a soil check or noticing compacted roots are clear indicators that it's time to give your plant new space.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes. This helps in avoiding root rot by allowing excess water to escape, thus ensuring that the roots remain healthy and well-aerated.

Choosing a light, well-draining soil mix is vital as it ensures the roots are not waterlogged, promoting healthy growth. A mix containing perlite or sand can enhance drainage and prevent the soil from becoming compacted over time.

Toxicity of Catnip

Is Catnip toxic to humans?

The leaves and blossoms of catnip can lead to undesirable reactions if ingested in excessive quantities. Symptoms that may arise from consumption include vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. There haven’t been any recorded instances of severe poisoning in humans due to catnip. The risk of poisoning is most commonly associated with the unintentional intake of concentrated catnip products like essential oil.

Is Catnip toxic to cat?

Catnip is a plant known for its hazardous effects on felines. Cats may inadvertently consume parts of this plant, with the leaves posing a significant risk. While the exact toxic compounds in catnip are not specified, it is crucial to understand that ingestion can result in signs of physical discomfort or illness. If poisoning is suspected, it is essential to seek veterinary assistance promptly to safeguard the health of the affected cat.

Is Catnip toxic to dog?

Catnip is regarded as toxic to dogs. When dogs consume this plant, especially its leaves, they may face a risk of poisoning. Accidental ingestion is the most common way dogs can become poisoned. If a dog eats catnip, it might show signs such as gastrointestinal disturbance, depression of the central nervous system, or other distress signals. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close watch over their pets and restrict access to catnip to prevent potential poisoning incidents. If a dog does consume catnip, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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