Continue with Recommended Cookies. Do you grow catmint or catnip? The common name catmint can also refer to the genus as a whole. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America The plant is also known by the names catnip, catswort, and field balm. Therefore, you may want to add some edging around them. The low-growing cultivars, such as Walkers Low seem to be the most widely grown varieties. Nepeta Common name: Catmint These dependable perennials produce a profusion of usually lavender-blue flowers over a long season from late-spring to late-summer. It was one of the most common plants used for tea in England prior to the arrival of black tea from China. The plant blooms from June to September.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'stuffsure_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',181,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stuffsure_com-banner-1-0'); Catmint is easy to grow in average, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Substitute catmint for lavender in colder climates where lavender wont grow. C and vitamins A and K. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. Catmint's mounding or upright growth habit is perfect for mixed borders, as pathway edging, or in mass plantings. They should be planted at least 12 to 16 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Try it in your next DIY bug repellent and see what you think. Catmint tea has a refreshing taste and is said to be good for indigestion and headaches. If you want more, you can take divisions from the original plant after a couple of years and transplant them to other parts of the garden. NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems though it can be a bit weedy. The division can be done at any stage of the year, however, I generally recommend doing it in late Autumn or even winter dependent upon the climate you live in. Additionally, the young leaves are used as seasoning and garnishes in places like France. These flowers grow amid lush gray-green foliage which is characterized by plush leaves that have quite a delicate and lacy appearance. Learn about the history, flavor, benefits, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings, and other cooking ingredients. The plant is also quite tolerant of cold conditions and is hardy down to zone 3 in most cases. It is an extremely popular plant that is grown widely for its ornamental characteristics. The leaves and shoots can be added to soups and sauces. Author Robbin Small - Published 7-14-2022. If large amounts are eaten, it can cause stomach upset, but rarely any other problems. Some also refer to the Nepeta genus as either catnips or catmints. Traditional uses for catnip include: Native Americans used catnip for a range of uses including colds, headaches, and fevers, especially in children. Some claim that both catnip and catmint can be used medicinally, though documented herbal uses of catmint are extremely scarce. This study looked at a combination of lemon balm and Nepeta menthoides and found it helped with insomnia, depression, and anxiety. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); There are a lot of wild mushrooms that are considered inedible and even toxic. Catmint is edible and not considered toxic for humans or pets. The leaves also have also been used in salads to add fragrance. Mass Planting. Find out more and grab your copy here. During extreme heat or prolonged dry spells, water as needed. However, it can self-seed and occasionally pops up elsewhere in the landscape. "@type": "Article", Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. Catmint flowers are lavender. Follow these steps and space plants 1 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety. This use aligns with the Cherokee use of catnip as an abortifacient, so its probably best to avoid catnip in pregnancy. Catmint is most often grown by seed or through division. Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, plants are virtually pest and disease-free, while the mint-like scent repels deer and rabbits. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. While fall is often seen as mushroom hunting prime time, winter is a less appealing time to, When you see evergreen trees is your first thought to consume them? "url": "https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-jmzfi5zcr2/images/stencil/344x56/new_plant_addicts_logo_1649688464__46914.original.png" The leaves of the catmint plant have a minty, peppery flavor that can be used fresh or dried in a number of different dishes. Harvest the leaves just before they flower for the best flavor. Harvest leaves as flowers begin to bloom, cutting the top leaves, stems, and flowers if desired. Before Romes rise, the country of Etruria was the center of Etruscan civilization. It originated in Northern Africa and the Mediterranean but now commonly grows wild throughout Europe and North America. The taste and scent are both relatively mild when compared to those of other mints. Catmint is characterized by its gray-green leaves and lilac-colored flowers. This easily grown plant has an interesting history regarding its various uses in the landscape. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. Lastly, catmint has mild sedative effects, so avoid consumption before driving and two weeks before any scheduled surgery. . I found one article claiming Nepeta x faassenii was edible and another saying Nepeta racemosa was, but neither author cited any sources and may have just been repeating information about catnip where it had been called by its common name catmint. When establishing the plants from seed they can be sown directly into the garden however my personal preference is to sow them in seed trays as it allows me to have greater control over the growing conditions. Get more practical ways to live greener and healthier delivered straight to your inbox! Is Catmint Invasive? In terms of ongoing maintenance there is very little to do for the plant. It grows and flowers freely. Catnip flowers are typically white. Catmint is not considered invasive, though catnip, its close relative, can be weedy and somewhat invasive in the right growing conditions. Irrespective of the cultivar you select the catmint will progressively spread over time this provides an opportunity to propagate the plant by division. For containers, use a high quality all-purpose potting mix. Spearmint. Catnip is also found to be highly attractive to cats, with many of them exhibiting a naturally induced euphoria around the plant. This perennial plant originates in Europe and is found in the wild across the U.S and Canada. According to old stories about catmint, cats will only attempt to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants. Catmints flowers are usually purple, and the leaf shape and growth pattern differ from catnip, as you can see in the photos below. Typically Catmint is so bushy and full that deer browsing will not be noticable. "author": { Harvest the plant frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from setting seed too early. It is improving yearly as ever more varieties come on sale. Ground Cinnamon Vs. Cinnamon Stick How Do They Compare. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. Why do cats love it? Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family. They are commonly used as a lettuce substitute in salads and sandwiches. Catmint can thrive in poor soil. Catmint is easy to propagate by division. Catmint is better behaved and will stay where you put it. Temperate. Apparently catmint is also ok for human consumption and is used in cooking sometimes but I haven't read . Find out where you fall in the USDA Hardiness Zones database. Please consult them for more information and a licensed professional for personalized recommendations. "@type": "WebPage", Please share in the comments! Manage Settings Catmint tea can help with tummy troubles such as gas, indigestion, and cramping. Maintenance Notes: Prefers full sun and average, well-drained soil of low to average moisture. The one drawback with catnip is that some varieties can be aggressive spreaders and quickly take over large parts of the garden. Heres more on catmint cultivars and growing tips. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. However, if you are starting the plants off this early it may be necessary to apply additional heat either by bringing the seed tray inside your house or using a heated propagation tray. If large amounts are eaten, it can cause stomach upset, but rarely any other problems. Learn how your comment data is processed. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! This plant is edible and it even has some medicinal benefits for us too. Unlike catnip, catmint does not usually provide an intense buzz for kitties. Over time, deer can become used to the smell of repellents; consider rotating brands and types to maintain effectiveness. Hang these bundles upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. It grows in a clumping mound and can reach up to three feet in height. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Especially tricky is catnip vs. catmint. Usage: Chewed to extract the juice of the leaves or the root. Once the Catmint gets going you will find that the plant does is a good job of smoothing any competing weeds. Catmint is also attractive to bees and other pollinators. Consider planting low-growing Catmint around plants that attract deer browsing. This metastudy covers numerous Nepeta species (including several catmints) and reports that many had high concentrations of antioxidants and compounds with antimicrobial and other properties. HealthyGreenSavvy is committed to protecting your privacy. }, . The Nepeta genus is included within the Lamiaceae family which is also known as the mint family. Overfertilizing can cause fewer flowers or plants to flop. Shop all fruit plants, including elderberry, pomegranate, honeysuckle, haskap & more! If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. They should be able to start blooming in their first summer if you plant them early enough. It is also resistant to attacks from wildlife such as deer or rabbits who do not seem interested in eating it. (Like pine and spruce! Catmint is an aromatic herb that is commonly grown in the garden. Ideally, you should plant catmint in a sunny location, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Despite being known for its effects on felines, cats arent the only ones who can enjoy catmint. Aside from relieving tension and improving sleep quality, this herb also offers other health benefits. When flowers begin to fade, shear them off to encourage new growth and another wave of flowering. Calamintha 'Montrose White' is a very healthy and pest-resistant plant. Adorn a rock garden with catmint and groundcover plants like sedum, creeping phlox, ice plant (. 'Cat's Meow' Nepeta faassenii USPP 24,472, Can 5,098. Propagate it by division or seed. It also makes your garden more cat-friendly. ins.dataset.adClient = pid; It can be alarming to see your plant flattened by a cat, but Catmint will quickly recover after some pruning or propping back up with stakes. If you have a lot of catmint, the best way to store it is by drying it. The plants should be spaced approximately 1 ft (30 cm) apart to allow room for the catmint to grow. In fact, its a great herb to have in your kitchen. A list of the more common varieties of Nepetafaassenii are provided below; In addition to Nepetafaassenii there are also several other species from the same genus that are useful alternatives in the garden if the soil conditions are not ideal. 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