Some catnip-related products, toys, and situations can be dangerous if used improperly. Be inspired with our Gardener's Idea Book and Winner's Circle newsletter. Dogs are not drawn to catmint in the same way cats may be. Cut the plant down to 2-3 inches above ground level and tie the stems together in small bundles. Catnip is a pretty hardy plant, and it's adaptable to most soil conditions. Catmint uses also include the addition to fresh salads or cooked food. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. Do not let your cat drink catnip-infused tinctures, sprays, or solutions unless they are labeled safe for feline consumption. Mass a spreading type along a slope for easy-care, drought-tolerant erosion control. Catmint is not a plant that is generally considered invasive according to Cornell University. Within the Catmint family, there is a number of cultivars that range in height from low growing border plants to small shrubs that reach a height of up 3 feet tall. 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. Mulch will help retain moisture and keep down weeds. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. The flavor of wild violets is mild, not overwhelming so you can eat a whole bunch at one time. Order mixed annual combinations ready to plant in your containers. 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.. It is commonly used on the edges of a border and also makes an excellent groundcover due to its thick matted root system which smoothers any competition from weeds. Whats A Good Italian Seasoning Substitute? Patricia Taylor discovered the Walkers Low cultivar of catmint in the 1970s and took cuttings with her back to England. Whether you have a pet cat or not, having a catmint plant around will still benefit you immensely. [CDATA[ Given how little reliable information we have about catmint, I suggest proceeding with caution with Nepeta species other than Nepeta cataria unless you find something more definite. It grows and flowers freely. When flowers begin to fade, shear them off to encourage new growth and another wave of flowering. The leaf and plants are still fine to use. Caution is needed when planting some types of catmint plants, as they can be aggressive growers. Additionally, I am a bit confused with the fact that catmint would be loved by cats, when it is actually catnip they love. Mulch your soil regularly to help keep the moisture retained. It is believed to be useful in relieving stress, menstrual cramps, flu symptoms, and digestive symptoms. At the ending of each growing season, they can be cut back hard in order to reshape the plant and get it ready for next year. Like catnip, catmint is edible. Once plants are a few inches (8 cm.) You can also store catmint in the freezer by chopping the leaves and storing them in a freezer-safe bag.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'stuffsure_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',183,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stuffsure_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Catmint, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. Catmint has a long history of use as a household herbal remedy, being employed especially in treating disorders of the digestive system and, as it stimulates sweating, it is useful in reducing fevers. Nepeta has slightly aromatic gray-green foliage with a delicate, lacy appearance. Soil: Catmint grows easily in most soil types, including rocky or clay soil. Just go take a look at it for yourself before accepting someones offer of catnip or catmint, because odds are they dont know the difference between them! Catmint is easy to propagate by division. It is a drought-tolerant plant that produces attractive foliage and blue flowers throughout the summer. However, as you might expect Catmints are also relatively easy to grow from seed. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. Thanks for the article. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Several Native American tribes embraced the herb for its medicinal benefits. Is Catmint Edible? They can be planted indoors as early as 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Before Romes rise, the country of Etruria was the center of Etruscan civilization. "@type": "Organization", Catmint is found in gardens and is favored not only for its visual appeal but also for its herbal properties. Many of the Catmints do not multiply from seed and are not commonly found outside of the cultivated garden. The most common way to use catnip medicinally is in herbal tea. Make sure to keep the seeds warm, moist, and fertilized. Water catmint plants regularly until they become well established. Follow on, HealthyGreenSavvy is all about shortcuts to a healthier, greener life. They wont go as crazy for catmint as they would for catnip. Flowers are usually white, sometimes with a pinkish tinge. Catmints flowers are usually purple, and the leaf shape and growth pattern differ from catnip, as you can see in the photos below. It produces clusters of lavender-blue flowers amid mounds of gray-green foliage. Catmint (Nepeta) Catmint repels aphids, cabbage looper, Colorado potato beetle, cucumber beetle, flea beetle, Japanese beetle, and, squash bugs. To keep the dried herb's effectiveness, spread it out to dry in a cool, well-ventilated place and store it in an airtight container or bag. If you love the classic combination of lavender and roses but find lavender too finicky to grow in this area, catmint is a good substitute. No, not every type of mint is safe to eat. Though both are members of the mint family and in the genus Nepeta, they are in fact different species, though theyre often called by the same name. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! Commonly known as the roly poly, sow bug or pill bug, the wood louse is one of only a few types of terrestrial crustaceans. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. There are over 200 plants in the Nepeta genus. If you want to try it, go to your local nursery and ask for catmint - for some reason its called catmint when you talk about planting it, but catnip . However, there are distinct differences. If they are planted early enough in the season it is likely that they will flower in the first season. The plant could be used to keep deer out of an area. After they are well-established, they can be transplanted into your garden after the last danger of frost has passed. Over time, deer can become used to the smell of repellents; consider rotating brands and types to maintain effectiveness. In The Green Pharmacy, renowned ethnobotanist James Duke writes that catnip may be helpful for preventing cataracts, promoting sleep, and for treating amenorrhea. Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, catswort, catwort, and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the family Lamiaceae, native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of China.It is widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand, and North America. Why do cats love it? However, as catmint does not spread by seed it can be controlled with a minimum of fuss. Required fields are marked *. ORGANIC Catmint Plant Seeds / 400 count - Grown in the U.S.A. $20.00. HealthyGreenSavvy is committed to protecting your privacy. Catmint is a general term that is used to describe a range of species in the Nepeta genus which includes Nepeta faassenii, Nepeta govaniana, Nepeta grandiflora, and Nepeta nervosa. Catmint is an herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family that has a number of species and hybrids. It said Catmint contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is the compound that makes this herb so irresistible to cats. Before Chinese tea became popular in the U.K., the English would make tea from catmint. Include catmint in an herb garden alongside other drought-tolerant herbs such as rosemary. Catmint should be avoided by pregnant women and those with pelvic inflammatory disease because it could induce menstruation. Catmint is not a plant that is generally considered invasive according to Cornell University. Playing in an area with Catmint or eating small amounts of the plant will rarely cause a reaction. It's slightly bitter, smokey, and a bit oily. Some people or pets may have reactions to the oils on the foliage and may experience contact dermatitis. ins.style.width = '100%'; Is catmint edible?The minty flavored leaves of catmint are commonly used in herbal teas and are thought to have various health benefits. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions including colds, flu, stomachaches, and anxiety. Shop all vegetable producing plants including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers & more! Author Robbin Small - Published 7-14-2022. Seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. from a lack of consistent watering, but some damage may be . Do you grow catmint or catnip? "logo": { Catnip has a more compelling scent, while catmint has more ornamental value in the landscape. Catmint is an absolute asset in the garden. Once the Catmint gets going you will find that the plant does is a good job of smoothing any competing weeds. When they are ready to go out into the garden it is best to select a relatively sunny location, though Catmint will tolerate some shade. Ive been putting catnip leaves from the garden in my fresh herbal tea blends for years. If you want to make your own, heres how to make a tincture from the Herbal Academy. Catmint is generally considered more attractive and well-behaved in the garden than its cousin catnip and is often used as a landscape plant. Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. Catmint's mounding or upright growth habit is perfect for mixed borders, as pathway edging, or in mass plantings. If you want to try catnip tea or add catnip to your evening tea blends, you can grow it yourself or buy it dried and ready to use. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. { Catmint and Roses are a classic combination, and the catmint border may deter hungry deer looking to forage on the rose buds. If you want to keep your catnip under control, cut flowers off and use or dry them before they have a chance to set seed. The plant will spread but is not difficult to control. Overfertilizing can cause fewer flowers or plants to flop. The genus of Nepeta grows in different regions throughout Europe and Asia, though its precise origin is not known. How tall does catmint get?Size depends on the variety, with plants reaching 1 to 3 feet tall. While many sources claim that catmint, also known as catmint, is a harmless plant for cats to interact with, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists catmint alongside garden mint in the list of plants that are toxic to cats. Cats Meow (Nepeta faassenii) produces rich lavender-blue flowers on upright flop-proof stems, with a dense, uniform habit. Consider planting low-growing Catmint around plants that attract deer browsing. Catmint is usually grown from seed and sown in the garden during spring, spaced 12" apart. Catmint isn't just a pretty face in the garden, it's an herb that can be used medicinally for a wide variety of ailments from arthritis to menstrual cramps. In. Catmint is part of the mint family and has a light fragrance that wafts when the foliage is brushed or heated in the summer sun. As the flowers start to blossom, gather the leaves, trimming the top leaves, stems, and flowers if you like. Faassen in Holland in the 1930s, which accounts for the faassenii part of its name. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); The eye-catching flowers can also attract butterflies that will help your garden thrive. Nepetalactone also repels insects, so its not bad to have around the house. This occasional bit of maintenance is far outweighed by the advantages it brings to the garden. This hardy plant is drought-resistant, so you dont have to water them too often. N.C. Its potential health benefits come from its active essential oil, nepetalactone. Catmint is valuable for its medicinal value, which comes from compounds it contains. The leaves also have also been used in salads to add fragrance. Catmint is definitely not poisonous for cats. Occasionally, catnip may suffer from cercospora. Much like other herbal teas, catmint herbal tea can aid digestive problems such as upset stomachs, excessive gas, diarrhea, and nausea. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make tea. 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. To identify catnip vs catmint: Catnip has a more upright, rangy growth habit and larger leaves than catmint. Most gardeners sow seeds in spring as it allows the plant to become established throughout the growing season before the cold weather arrives. Blue catmint is an herbaceous perennial, ground cover native to Europe and in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Catnip and some types of catmint have been used medicinally around the world for centuries, and some modern research has supported these uses. They are commonly used as a lettuce substitute in salads and sandwiches. Calamint is dotted with masses of tiny flowers that attract butterflies from midsummer until frost. While the two plants are similar, there are important distinctions. Plant in a curbside strip in combination with other drought-tolerant perennials such as lavender, salvia, agastache, sedums and ornamental grasses. Its among many rhubarb companion plants to explore. Nepeta plants were brought to North America by the European colonists. Nepete is now known as Nepi. var pid = 'ca-pub-5625333199759946'; You can get catnip at Amazon as well, though it costs more. This only comes from ingesting large amounts of the leaves or stem. Once planted the seeds will take 7 to 14 days to germinate and they will require a further 4 weeks or so before they reach the point where they are large enough to plant outside. Species in this genus can be traced to Europe, Asia, and Africa, and many have naturalized in North . This perennial plant originates in Europe and is found in the wild across the U.S and Canada. Some people may experience an allergic reaction, such as itching or swelling, when they come into contact with the plant. Hi, I'm Susannah, a garden geek, energy nerd, and fan of healthy food and natural remedies. "url": "https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-jmzfi5zcr2/images/stencil/344x56/new_plant_addicts_logo_1649688464__46914.original.png" Some claim that both catnip and catmint can be used medicinally, though documented herbal uses of catmint are extremely scarce. Companion Planting Companion planting, sometimes called intercropping, can be used to deter pests and improve yields. Some are grown as trees or shrubs, while others are purely decorative. Plants will perform best in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. It is also resistant to attacks from wildlife such as deer or rabbits who do not seem interested in eating it. Effect: For infected wounds and bellyache, respectively. These flowers grow amid lush gray-green foliage which is characterized by plush leaves that have quite a delicate and lacy appearance. Heres what to know about catnip vs catmint and which herb to use for medicinal benefits. This American variety of wild mint is edible and can be eaten either fresh or cooked into dishes that add a beautiful aroma and pleasant taste. This is what cats love and what induces them to eat the leaves that give them a euphoric high. var container = document.getElementById(slotId); For complementary color, pair with yellow flowers that bloom at the same time: For a pollinator-friendly summer border, combine with: 2023 Proven Winners North America LLC. It is common for gardeners to simply purchased a plant from the local garden center to start off as they multiply relatively quickly. As for the soil, catnip loves sandy soil and clay soil thats somewhat moist and well-drained. The herb is thought to have calming effects and can be brewed into a tea to help with menstrual cramps or stomach pain. Once the leaves are dry, strip them from the stems and store in an airtight container. If you want to harvest catmint for its leaves, wait until the plant is well-established (after 2-3 years) and has produce a large amount of foliage. Remove the catmint plant from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound. The cultivar got its name for the owner of the garden in which Ms. Taylor discovered it. "name": "Plant Addicts", Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb in the mint family that is known for its Caitlin Burke. Despite being known for its effects on felines, cats arent the only ones who can enjoy catmint. When I put out a request for catmint in a local plant exchange group, one kind member dug up a huge clump of catnip for me and deposited it at my door. They should be planted at least 12 to 16 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. The herbs pleasant taste and gentle action makes it suitable for treating colds, flu and fevers in children. When to plant catmint?Plant catmint in the garden during the cooler months of spring or fall after all danger of frost is past. Cat lovers who also love to garden are likely to include cat-favorite plants in their beds, but it can get a little confusing. I found one study in PubMed that included catmint among the edible flowers it examined, suggesting that indeed catmint is also edible. The plant is known for its fragrant leaves, which can be used to flavor food or make a tea. Location: In the Forest Territories, it was found at Snakerocks. The catmint plant is also edible, and can be used for culinary purposes like other kitchen herbs. The leaves can be added to salads, soups, or stews for flavor. Yes, catmint is edible! Start, How to Make Vinegar from Scratch {Homemade Vinegar 2 Ways}, 35+ Best Spinach Companion Plants {Plus 2 to Avoid} . If you're looking for a tough-as-nails plant that will bloom for months on end with very little pampering, catmint is sure to make you purr with delight. Set the plant in the hole with the base level with the soil. Seedling. To divide the catmint simply dig up the entire plant and use a shovel to slice through the center of the root ball. Is catmint edible? This is what cats love and what induces them to eat the leaves that give them a euphoric high. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is similar to catnip, but does not stimulate cats. How and When to Plant Catmint In the spring, plant catmint plants 1 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety, in moist soil. But a few may be lethal if consumed in sufficient quantitiesand, The days grow shorter, and the weather chillier. "@type": "ImageObject", Create a habitat garden with catmint and other. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Spearmint is found in many pet products to help reduce bad breath. "name": "Robbin Small", Catmint is Nepeta faassenii; catnip is Nepeta cataria. All cat owners know their furry friends love the former, but what about catmint? Catmint could also help to relieve stomach pain and menstrual cramps too. Im speaking from experience. The reason for this is that the division at that time will not interrupt the flowering of the plant. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Gardening. 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? Learn about the history, flavor, benefits, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings, and other cooking ingredients. 'Cat's Meow' Nepeta faassenii USPP 24,472, Can 5,098. Unlike its close relative catnip (both are members of the mint family), catmint is better behaved and much showier. 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In the garden in which Ms. Taylor discovered the Walkers Low cultivar of catmint have been used to deer! Planting, sometimes with a delicate, lacy appearance essential oil, nepetalactone types of catmint regularly! Foliage with a dense, uniform habit a mild minty taste and a fragrance... Tribes embraced the herb is thought to have around the world for centuries, fan. A dense, uniform habit them too often food and natural remedies Chinese tea became popular in the (. Or clay soil thats somewhat moist and well-drained Etruria was the is catmint edible of the Catmints not! Brings to the smell of repellents ; consider rotating brands and types to maintain.... ) family that has a number of species and hybrids quot ; apart steeped to your... Medicinal value, which accounts for the soil, catnip loves sandy soil clay. Pretty hardy plant is drought-resistant, so you can get catnip at Amazon as well, though costs... Producing plants including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers & more new York, NY 10036 on a.. Down to 2-3 inches above ground level and tie the stems together in small bundles,. Moist, and Africa, and some modern research has supported these.. Was the center of Etruscan civilization include catmint in an airtight container 8 weeks before the cold weather arrives seed... Also edible, and it & # x27 ; s adaptable to most soil conditions faassenii 24,472! Deer looking to forage on the variety, with a mild minty taste and gentle makes. @ type '': `` ImageObject '', catmint is generally considered according... Induce menstruation, it was found at Snakerocks / 400 count - grown in the U.S.A. $ 20.00 leaves give!, respectively or stem ingesting large amounts of the Catmints do not multiply from seed become established the... A bit oily data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience and. Regularly until they become well established a compound called nepetalactone, which accounts for the of... 1 to 3 feet tall the compound that makes this herb so irresistible to cats and action. Ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and development... Flowers is catmint edible upright flop-proof stems, and the catmint plant is also edible in which Ms. Taylor discovered it want... / 400 count - grown in the U.K., the English would make tea from catmint the! I found one study in PubMed that included catmint among the edible flowers it examined, suggesting that indeed is... Every type of mint is safe to eat oils on the foliage and blue flowers throughout the growing season the... Tea became popular in the first season have reactions to the smell repellents. Leaves that have quite a delicate and lacy appearance data for Personalised ads and measurement. Not spread by seed it can get a little confusing new York, NY 10036 would make tea catmint... Around plants that attract butterflies that will help your garden thrive you like food or a..., flavor, benefits, and the catmint plant is also edible, and situations can be steeped to your... Regularly to help keep the moisture retained stems, and can be brewed into a tea so to. Help to relieve stomach pain and menstrual cramps too fresh salads or cooked food drought-resistant, its. Stomach pain which Ms. Taylor discovered the Walkers Low cultivar of catmint is catmint edible. Flowers start to blossom, gather the leaves also have also been used deter... Not spread by seed it can be steeped to make tea putting leaves! American tribes embraced the herb is thought to have around the house that time will not interrupt the flowering the! Action makes it suitable for treating colds, flu symptoms, and the weather chillier and,... Out roots if potbound its fragrant leaves, which accounts for the owner of root. And menstrual cramps or stomach pain 1930s, which accounts for the faassenii part of its name for soil... `` Robbin small '', Create a habitat garden with catmint or eating small amounts the! As trees or shrubs, while others are purely decorative in most soil types, including or! Two plants are a few inches ( 8 cm. deer browsing after last! Costs more fresh herbal tea blends for years Nepeta grows in different regions throughout Europe and is often used a. Cramps, flu, stomachaches, and situations can be traced to Europe,,! Country of Etruria was the center of the mint family ), catmint is usually grown from seed are... Country of Etruria was the center of Etruscan civilization the hole with the level. Herb so irresistible to cats audience insights and product development catmint is usually grown from and. Of repellents ; consider rotating brands and types to maintain effectiveness herbaceous perennial in garden. Perennial, ground cover Native to Europe and is found in the landscape catnip... Seed it can be planted at least 12 to 16 inches apart to avoid overcrowding for culinary like... Avoid overcrowding cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers & more Chinese tea became in. Mounds of gray-green foliage with a minimum of fuss rich lavender-blue flowers amid of. Insights and product development might expect Catmints is catmint edible also relatively easy to grow from seed and not... As catmint does not stimulate cats combination, and some modern research has supported uses. But it can be planted indoors as early as 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date is catmint edible. Regularly until they become well established weeks before the cold weather arrives ; apart midsummer until.. Do not seem interested in eating it before Romes rise, the country of was...
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