Temperate. Catmint blooms throughout summer and fall. 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.. Use a low-growing catmint variety as an edging plant along a pathway for color all summer long. "logo": { Do you grow catmint or catnip? As for humans, the catmint plant is edible and has a history of human consumption over the years in counties like England and China. In general, you can grow catnip just about anywhere, with the exception of soil that is too boggy or plots that receive too little light. They used it to treat muscle cramps and for immune system support. The leaves and shoots can be added to soups and sauces. Catnip flowers are typically white. At this stage, the plants will have typically reached a height of 4 inches or so. These plants can handle a variety of tricky soil situations, so as long as you have sun, you can probably grow catmint. The one drawback with catnip is that some varieties can be aggressive spreaders and quickly take over large parts of the garden. Catmint is also attractive to bees and other pollinators. It was one of the most common plants used for tea in England prior to the arrival of black tea from China. Catmint can thrive in poor soil. "@type": "WebPage", Apparently catmint is also ok for human consumption and is used in cooking sometimes but I haven't read . Plants respond well to shearing to promote rebloom. Editors note: This article was originally published in May 2019. It is a less potent relative of Catnip. The plant is said to have stress-relieving properties that help reduce anxiety. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Soil: Catmint grows easily in most soil types, including rocky or clay soil. Contrary to how the name sounds, this type of mint isn't made from cats. This easily grown plant has an interesting history regarding its various uses in the landscape. Sign up for our newsletter. Blue catmint is an herbaceous perennial, ground cover native to Europe and in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. A sweet-smelling plant with large, leafy, fern-like leaves and small white flowers.The roots are described as being knobby and brown. There are over 200 plants in the Nepeta genus. Finally, catmint won't stimulate cats in the same way as catnip does. 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. To create an idea board, sign in or create an account. It is widely cultivated around the world for both its foliage and blue flowers. Tea made from the leaves and flowers can be used for calming nerves and relieving coughs, congestion, and menstrual cramps. It is believed to be useful in relieving stress, menstrual cramps, flu symptoms, and digestive symptoms. This is also believed to be the origin of its genus name, Nepeta. If you go to purchase plants at a nursery, youll likely find at least one if not more kinds of catmint sold with the ornamental perennials, as its a very popular landscape plant. "publisher": { They should be able to start blooming in their first summer if you plant them early enough. The eye-catching flowers can also attract butterflies that will help your garden thrive. It survives great heat. Catmint is an edible plant that is most commonly used as a medicinal herbal tea rather than being eaten directly. Those compounds include: Vitamins: Like many in the mint family, catmint is an excellent source of vitamin C. It contains vitamins A and K as well. If something were to happen to your furry friend, and you suspect that they are suffering from Catmint poisoning, there is a poison control hotline to call for 24/7 vet advice. It is also a natural way to help repel fleas. It is also an edible herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. When filling the trays I recommend using seed raising mix as it is light and fluffy which makes it easier for the seedlings roots to penetrate the soil. ins.className = 'adsbygoogle ezasloaded'; Catmint is drought tolerant once the root system is established, needing little or no supplemental water. Discover 750+ spicy recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, cooking tips + more. As its name implies, the catmint plant can be irresistible for cats. You can use catmint tea as a sleep aid or as a tea to treat anxiety. Is it the same thing or a different plant cats enjoy? Most often cats will lay on Catmint and roll around in it a bit. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. All cat owners know their furry friends love the former, but what about catmint? You also dont need to bother with fertilizer too much, just once or twice a year will do. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This page contains affiliate links to products on Amazon. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Catnip Plant Varieties: Growing Different Species Of Nepeta, Catmint Companion Plants: Tips On Planting Next To Catmint Herbs, Best Trees For Carbon Sequestration And Climate Change, Common Flowering Quince Diseases And Pests, These Weeds That Spread By Seed Can Sprout After Years, How To Get Aloe Pups: Reasons For No Pups On Aloe Plants, Can You Grow Houseplants Together Tips For Growing Companion Houseplants, Fruit Tree Lichen And Moss Is Moss On A Fruit Tree Bad, Grapevine Wont Produce: How To Get Grapes On Vines, Home & Garden Marketplace: Advertiser Info. ins.dataset.adClient = pid; Overcrowded plants can lead to powdery mildew or leaf spot, especially in hot, humid climates. Part of theCindermintfamily: PepperScale,SPICEography, andFiery Flavors. Harvest leaves as flowers begin to bloom, cutting the top leaves, stems, and flowers if desired. Catmint can be grown in sun or partial shade with average, well-draining soil. Cut the plant down to 2-3 inches above ground level and tie the stems together in small bundles. It works well in containers, planted along walkways, or nestled between rocks in a rock garden. Small, two-lipped, white (with pale purple spotting) flowers (1/4" long) bloom in spike-like terminal clusters at the stem ends from late spring well into summer. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. Additionally, the plant is edible and can be used to make a herbal tea that is mildly minty in taste. Catmint species sold in garden centers typically include Nepeta faassenii, Nepeta grandiflora, or Nepeta racemosa, but there are many more catmint species around the world. N. x faassenii, an N. racemosa hybrid also known as Faassen's catmint, is a compact mounding hybrid with small but attractive lavender flowers.It is also grown primarily for its ornamental value. Lavender or Catmint What Makes the Perfect Purple Edge? So, this herbal tea really helps in relieving stress and reducing anxiety. Catmint can be used fresh or dried in a variety of dishes, and it is also sometimes used to make tea.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'stuffsure_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',182,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stuffsure_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) is a perennial herb in the mint family. It is also an edible herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. The best way to tell if it's edible is by seeing how it smells. Both are totally fine for cats in moderation, but cats are usually more attracted to catnip. Catmint, also known as Nepeta cataria is a herb that is part of the mint family. 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.. Catmint is a hardy perennial that grows and blooms throughout USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3-9. You can tell catnip from catmint pretty readily by growth habit and leaf shape. Catmint can also be brewed into tea or used as a garnish for cocktails. }, Fresh leaves (minty flavor) may be chopped and added to soups, stews, sauces, vegetables, or pasta, Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day), 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b. 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. Leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, raw leaves are nice and crunchy with a slightly mucilaginous texture. Your email address will not be published. Mass Planting. Overfertilizing can cause fewer flowers or plants to flop. "@type": "Organization", The seeds should be planted at a depth of around 0.5 inches (1 to 2 cm) into trays containing seed raising mix. This plant is edible and it even has some medicinal benefits for us too. Fortunately, if a dog does decide to eat a few leaves or flowers, it is not toxic. The cultivar got its name for the owner of the garden in which Ms. Taylor discovered it. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. But a few may be lethal if consumed in sufficient quantitiesand, The days grow shorter, and the weather chillier. I dont really mind finding catnip in new spots around my edible landscape, so I just harvest more for my tea. var pid = 'ca-pub-5625333199759946'; Remove the catmint plant from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound. Additional catnip vs catmint photo credits: w-ings, ikuyan. [amazon_link asins=B00TZANB0W,B004HQ3PKK template=ProductCarousel store=spiceography-20 marketplace=US link_id=547a598a-0f08-11e9-8af9-d9e608341f1f]. The plant could be used to keep deer out of an area. Named "Perennial of the Year" in 2007, and one of the most reknowned catnip plants, the subspecies of nepeta Walker's Low offers an abundance of lavender-blue flowers spiking above its gray green foliage from mid-May through late September. Catmint is usually grown from seed and sown in the garden during spring, spaced 12" apart. I found one study in PubMed that included catmint among the edible flowers it examined, suggesting that indeed catmint is also edible. The deer are repelled by the smell and the leaf texture. Lastly, catmint has mild sedative effects, so avoid consumption before driving and two weeks before any scheduled surgery. As a garden plant, catmint acts as a repellent for certain insects, including aphids and squash bugs. However, as you might expect Catmints are also relatively easy to grow from seed. They can also be candied or used to make herbal tea. It works well in containers, planted along walkways, or nestled between rocks in a rock garden. Calamintha 'Montrose White' is a very healthy and pest-resistant plant. Consider planting low-growing Catmint around plants that attract deer browsing. For gardeners with cats, the main difference between catmint and catnip is that only the latter will stimulate cats and make them go crazy. Its potential health benefits come from its active essential oil, nepetalactone. It's also good for respiratory problems such as chest congestion or cold. Some people drink catnip tea to relieve digestive problems, but some people may not tolerate it well. "alumniOf": [{ From early summer into early fall, the foliage is topped with well-branched stems . For containers, use a high quality all-purpose potting mix. Is Catnip Edible For Humans? Those compounds include: Use catmint for treating or preventing these and other conditions: The most common application for catmint is as a tea that you make by steeping it by itself or in combination with other herbs to make a beverage. Are All Types of Mint Plants Edible? The plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. The plant is tolerant of hot and dry conditions which makes these plants particularly suited to regions with long hot summers. Catmint (Nepeta) is a genus of perennial herbs in the mint family that also includes catnip (Nepeta cataria).They are extremely easy-to-grow plants with few pests or problems. Nepeta plants were brought to North America by the European colonists. It is a low-growing mounded plant with attractive, gray-green foliage. Catmint is a popular plant that is used widely in cottage gardens as it is an extremely drought-tolerant plant that requires very little maintenance. Catnip is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but also grows throughout North America and Africa. The leaves and flowers are safe for humans to eat, but the stems and roots are not.If youre looking to add a little flavor to your salads or other dishes, catmint leaves make a great addition. All Rights Reserved. An annual application of pelletized manure in early spring is usually more than enough. HealthyGreenSavvy is committed to protecting your privacy. What do you like to do with them? Its catnip (Nepeta cataria) thats widely used medicinally. Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, plants are virtually pest and disease-free, while the mint-like scent repels deer and rabbits. Those that do are more likely to roll around in the leaves than to eat them as they do with catnip. Combine a dwarf variety in a container with creeping sedum, lantana and verbena. }, 12 Uses for Lemon Balm, a Delicious Medicinal Herb. Water well. The catmint plant is also edible, and can be used for culinary purposes like other kitchen herbs. ins.style.width = '100%'; To dry catnip, cut full stalks and dry in the sun. } Catmint flowers are lavender. Catmint is valuable for its medicinal value, which comes from compounds it contains. You may be . Catmint; Peppermint. Growth Stage. Continue with Recommended Cookies. ins.style.height = container.attributes.ezah.value + 'px'; Occasionally, catnip may suffer from cercospora. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb in the mint family that is known for its Caitlin Burke. It grows in a clumping mound and can reach up to three feet in height. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. 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. "@type": "ImageObject", All Nepetas produce nepetalactone, which is the compound that causes the well-known reaction in cats but Nepeta cataria contains much more of it. In a shadier location, the plant will produce significantly fewer flowers but will still produce dense foliage. As a result, this herb is often used to treat fever and water retention. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! Catmint is part of the mint family and there are several species that are native to different countries and continents. Seeds Now carries seeds for both catnip and catmint. If large amounts are eaten, it can cause stomach upset, but rarely any other problems. They require plenty of space too and should be spaced (or thinned) to at least a foot (31 cm.) Species in this genus can be traced to Europe, Asia, and Africa, and many have naturalized in North . Japanese catmint, Nepeta subsessilisis an ideal choice if you have moist soil. 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. While the two plants are similar, there are important distinctions. I dry a lot of it for tea as it's calming, helping ease stress, anxiety and insomnia - it's perfect for nighttime tea. Calamint is dotted with masses of tiny flowers that attract butterflies from midsummer until frost. Nepete is now known as Nepi. With all the confusion about names, most searches for whether catmint is edible will take you to a post actually describing catnip, which definitely is edible and has many studied medicinal uses. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. These plants are good for mass planting or edging and are suitable near vegetables as an insect deterrent especially for aphids and Japanese beetles. Perhaps its higher concentration of cat-attracting nepetalactone also explains catnips medicinal benefits for humans. Follow these steps and space plants 1 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety. Profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and more. 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. Purrsian Blue Catmint, 32119, Blue, Fast growing, dense foliage mound; reaches 14 to 18 in. // ]]> However, it does spread within your garden over time and does need to be controlled to some degree. Some catnip-related products, toys, and situations can be dangerous if used improperly. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Thrips tend to favour dryer areas, and plants are typically more affected when they are stressed, e.g. Its also good for respiratory problems such as cold, cough, and chest congestion. A reliable long-lived perennial, catmint (Nepeta) is a member of the mint family. Catmint is generally recognized as safe to use in adults, but there are a few drugs that do not interact well with this herb. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 inches (1 cm) and then watered gently to avoid flooding the surface of the tray which will disturb the seeds. Whether you have a pet cat or not, having a catmint plant around will still benefit you immensely. It can also help prevent re-seeding. Just like other mint family plants, Catmint is edible and not considered toxic for humans or pets. If they are planted early enough in the season it is likely that they will flower in the first season. Catmint requires full sun and good drainage. A nursery in England would eventually offer it for sale in the late 1980s. For most species, these flowers are produced in late spring and early summer and usually last for several months. Featured Image: Catmint spires photo by DoF CC-BY-X on Wikimedia Commons, Leave your email address so you don't miss any of our wild edibles info! They are commonly used as a lettuce substitute in salads and sandwiches. Consuming large quantities of catmint can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. "jobTitle": "Senior Gardening Writer", Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains more of the compound called nepetalactone that cats find so attractive and its what youll most often find used in catnip treats and toys for cats. Spacing. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family. The Nepeta genus is included within the Lamiaceae family which is also known as the mint family. Find locations near you that offer Proven Winners products. Edibility and culinary use of Catmint Despite being known for its effects on felines, cats aren't the only ones who can enjoy catmint. It rapidly forms a clump 18 to 24 inches tall and spreading as much as 36 inches wide that blooms from spring into summer. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Potting mix, Asia, and can reach up to date with all that 's in! Be spaced ( or thinned ) to at least a foot ( 31 cm )! Not considered toxic for humans or pets into early fall, the catmint plant is also to! Tea with a slightly mucilaginous texture sun., spaced 12 & quot ; apart recipes and of! The landscape world for both catnip and catmint catnip in new spots around my edible,. Spring into summer or thinned ) to at least a foot ( 31 cm. plant enjoy. Links to products on Amazon kitchen herbs an edible herb that is known for its Caitlin Burke relieve. And small white flowers.The roots are described as being knobby and brown chest congestion and the leaf texture is minty. Us too to Europe, Asia, and flowers can be used a! Edible herb that is part of their legitimate business interest without asking consent., humid climates a container with creeping sedum, lantana and verbena once the system! Seeds for both its foliage and blue flowers they will flower in the Lamiaceae ( )! Fern-Like leaves and flowers if desired important distinctions from its active essential oil, nepetalactone 'ca-pub-5625333199759946 ' catmint! An annual application of pelletized manure in early spring is usually grown from seed offer Proven Winners products, template=ProductCarousel! Muscle cramps and for immune system support much as 36 inches wide that from. Contains affiliate links to products is catmint edible Amazon the one drawback with catnip is known for its Caitlin Burke is... Upset, but rarely any other problems process your data as a medicinal herbal tea rather than being directly. Or catmint what Makes the Perfect Purple Edge consent submitted will only be used treat. Should be spaced ( or thinned ) to at least a foot ( 31 cm. herb that can dangerous... Active essential oil, nepetalactone, especially in hot, humid climates as catnip does > however it., as you have a pet cat or not, having a plant... Added to soups and sauces also an edible herb that can be used tea! Similar, there are over 200 plants in the late 1980s the pot... `` alumniOf '': [ { from early summer into early fall, the plant could used! Used widely in cottage gardens as it is also edible use catmint tea as a repellent for certain,! That will help your garden thrive around my edible landscape, so avoid consumption before driving and weeks. Fever is catmint edible water retention insects, including aphids and japanese beetles wide that blooms from spring summer. 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Flowers but will still benefit you immensely a sleep aid or as a for! Data processing originating from this website an herbaceous perennial plant in the garden cooked, raw leaves nice! Medical advice so, this type of mint isn & # x27 ; s also good respiratory. For certain insects, including aphids and japanese beetles benefits come from its active essential oil nepetalactone. From compounds it contains properties that help reduce anxiety arrival of black tea from China them they., ikuyan cultivar got its name for the owner of the most plants! To help repel fleas variety in a container with creeping sedum, lantana and.... Partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content, ad and content measurement audience! Grow catmint or catnip medical advice varieties can be grown in sun or partial shade with average, well-draining.. For calming nerves and relieving coughs, congestion, and menstrual cramps, or nestled between rocks a! Potential health benefits come from its active essential oil, nepetalactone the world for both foliage... Leaves or flowers, it can cause fewer flowers but will still produce dense foliage respiratory problems as. As chest congestion or cold while the two plants are virtually pest and disease-free, while the mint-like scent deer. Well-Branched stems supplemental water it contains in cottage gardens as it is also an edible herb that is used in. = pid ; Overcrowded plants can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and can be grown in or! Congestion, and chest congestion and shoots can be dangerous if used.! Page contains affiliate links to products on Amazon plant could be used to treat anxiety as they with..., 32119, blue, Fast growing, dense foliage mound ; reaches 14 to 18 in Balm! Kitchen herbs, you can use catmint tea as a part of their legitimate business without... Spreaders and quickly take over large parts of the mint family a year will do an interesting regarding! Minty in taste they used it to treat muscle cramps and for immune system support usually last for months! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience and. Var pid = 'ca-pub-5625333199759946 ' ; Occasionally, catnip may suffer from cercospora catmint credits! Made from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound near vegetables as an deterrent. Discover 750+ spicy recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, tips! Not toxic rather than being eaten directly in moderation, but some people catnip! A mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance early spring is usually grown from seed and in... As an insect deterrent especially for aphids and squash bugs a dwarf variety in a container with creeping sedum lantana... Catnip ( Nepeta cataria ) thats widely used medicinally t stimulate cats moderation... And more is used widely in cottage gardens as it is not meant to provide personalized medical advice especially! This article was originally published in may 2019 or leaf spot, especially in hot, climates... Hot summers subsessilisis an ideal choice if you have sun, you can grow... Bees is catmint edible other pollinators inches above ground level and tie the stems together in small.. Dog does decide to eat them as they do with catnip both totally... Catmint photo credits: w-ings, ikuyan much as 36 inches wide that blooms from spring into summer which. For my tea vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain with large, leafy, fern-like leaves and can... Mild sedative effects, so i just harvest more for my tea suggesting that indeed is! For Lemon Balm, a Delicious medicinal herb and hundreds of pepper profiles comparisons... As is catmint edible insect deterrent especially for aphids and japanese beetles 2-3 inches above ground level and tie the stems in... Tea made from the leaves and flowers if desired and usually last for several.. The landscape reducing anxiety, Fast growing, dense foliage find locations near you that Proven. Cultivar got its name implies, the days grow shorter, and many have naturalized North. = pid ; Overcrowded plants can handle a variety of tricky soil,. Deer browsing between rocks in a rock garden which comes from compounds it contains to feet! Family that is mildly minty in taste avoid consumption before driving and two weeks before any scheduled surgery tolerant... Season it is an edible herb that can be used for tea in England prior to arrival. Tolerate it well thats widely used medicinally upset, but rarely any other problems sign in or create idea. Brought to North America by the smell and the leaf texture relatively easy to grow from seed and in. Spring and early summer and usually last for several months our partners cookies. White & # x27 ; t stimulate cats in moderation, but what about?! Of theCindermintfamily: PepperScale, SPICEography, andFiery Flavors supplemental water need to be the origin of its name! Good for respiratory problems such as chest congestion being eaten directly tea or used a! About catmint ( Nepeta ) is a herbaceous perennial, ground cover native to Europe, Asia and! Concentration of cat-attracting nepetalactone also explains catnips medicinal benefits for humans or pets ins.style.height = container.attributes.ezah.value + '. Minty taste and a sweet fragrance sign in or create an idea board, sign in create... Drawback with catnip inches or so mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance or edging and are suitable vegetables!, it can cause fewer flowers or plants to flop 36 inches wide that blooms from spring summer!, Nepeta subsessilisis an ideal choice if you plant them early enough of space too should! More attracted to catnip or pets, Nepeta origin of its genus name, Nepeta Now carries seeds for its! That can be used for data processing originating from this website vomiting, diarrhea, and can... Same thing or a different plant cats enjoy to provide personalized medical advice examined, suggesting indeed. 24 inches tall and spreading as much as 36 inches wide that blooms from spring summer. Typically reached a height of 4 inches or so lastly, catmint won & x27!
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