Commonly known as Catnip, it is a herbaceous perennial plant in the Lamiaceae family.
Physical Description:
Leaves: The leaves are heart-shaped, gray-green, and covered with fine hairs. When crushed, the leaves release a distinct fragrance that is attractive to cats.
Stems: Catnip has square stems, a characteristic feature of plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae).
Flowers: The flowers are small, tubular, and usually white with purple spots. They grow in clusters on spikes.
Uses:
Cat Attraction: Catnip is well-known for its effect on cats. The compound nepetalactone found in the leaves and stems can induce a temporary euphoric response in cats, often characterized by rolling, rubbing, and playful behavior.
Medicinal: In traditional herbal medicine, catnip has been used to make teas or infusions for its mild sedative properties. It's considered safe for human consumption in moderation.
Ornamental: Catnip is often grown for its ornamental value. It produces attractive flowers and has a pleasant fragrance.
Growing Conditions:
Soil: Well-drained soil is preferred. Catnip can adapt to various soil types.
Watering: It prefers moderate watering and well-drained soil.
Sunlight: Catnip thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness: Catnip is hardy and can be grown as a perennial.
Harvesting:
Harvest leaves and flowers as needed. For catnip's cat-attracting effects, it's best to offer fresh or dried leaves. Harvest before the plant flowers for the highest concentration of nepetalactone.
top of page
R44,00Price
bottom of page