perennial

Catnip

Nepeta cataria

The Story

Plant Bio

Common catnip known for its aromatic leaves, attracts cats.

Contains nepetalactone which can induce euphoric behavior in some cats.

Uses & Benefits:

Nepeta's aromatic foliage and lavender flowers create a calming, fragrant garden feature that attracts pollinators.

Its drought tolerance makes it an eco-friendly choice for water-wise gardens.

Nepeta attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local pollinator populations.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Dry to medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eurasia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root growth, keep soil moist.
Plant in full sun for best flowering and aroma.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilize lightly during active growing season for lush foliage.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize in late fall
Refrain from cutting back in late winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Harvest
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with silvery foliageWildflower meadow accentHerb garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Lavender SageRosemary Yarrow Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Catnip questions

What zones can Catnip grow in?

Catnip is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Catnip deer resistant?

Yes — Catnip is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Catnip bloom?

Catnip typically blooms in late spring to early fall through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Catnip need full sun?

Catnip does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Catnip drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Catnip handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.