Container planting helps because it makes it easier to control. When planting them out it is advisable to mulch thickly around the base of the plant to avoid any chance of them drying out. 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. Professional Growing Information. But is it invasive like mint and will it take over the garden? To divide the catmint simply dig up the entire plant and use a shovel to slice through the center of the root ball. 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. "knowsAbout": ["Edible Gardening, Plants, Gardening, Nurseries, Houseplants, Container Gardening, Landscape & Garden Design, Native Plants of North America, Seed Saving, Waterwise Planting, Seed & Plant Propagation, Sustainable Gardening"], Catmint is most often grown by seed or through division. Japanese catmint, Nepeta subsessilisis an ideal choice if you have moist soil. It was one of the most common plants used for tea in England prior to the arrival of black tea from China. 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. However, it does spread within your garden over time and does need to be controlled to some degree. Fresh, dried, or frozen catmint can be used in cooking or as a tea. Catmint is drought tolerant once the root system is established, needing little or no supplemental water. It works well in containers, planted along walkways, or nestled between rocks in a rock garden. Will catmint attract cats? 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! Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, plants are virtually pest and disease-free, while the mint-like scent repels deer and rabbits. Adorn a rock garden with catmint and groundcover plants like sedum, creeping phlox, ice plant (. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family. The answer is both yes and no. "headline": "Is Catmint Poisonous", The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. Catnip flowers are typically white. Flowers are usually white, sometimes with a pinkish tinge. Please consult them for more information and a licensed professional for personalized recommendations. The active compound in catnip is nepetalactone. Part of theCindermintfamily: PepperScale,SPICEography, andFiery Flavors. Space each catmint plant at least 12" apart, but 18" is preferred. In addition to its culinary uses, catmint has a long history of use in natural medicine. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb in the mint family that is known for its Caitlin Burke. Some people report that their cats show some interest in catmint. 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. This page contains affiliate links to products on Amazon. To create an idea board, sign in or create an account. "@type": "", Catmint's spreading form makes it a good choice for meadows, naturalized areas, and cottage gardens. According to old stories about catmint, cats will only attempt to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants. Cats like it OK, but they wont go crazy for it the way they do for catnip. Alternatively, you can also eat young cat mints leaves. They grow dense foliage and will compete and also raise the humidity of the garden, which may lead to mildew or fungus. Catmint can be grown in sun or partial shade with average, well-draining soil. Stomach upset and temporary vomiting is the most common symptom. Catmint is a plant that is edible to humans, but it has some medical benefits. Catmint is an herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family that has a number of species and hybrids. Harvest the leaves just before they flower for the best flavor. The leaves of the catmint plant have a minty, peppery flavor that can be used fresh or dried in a number of different dishes. Lastly, catmint has mild sedative effects, so avoid consumption before driving and two weeks before any scheduled surgery. Required fields are marked *. "@id": "https://plantaddicts.com/is-catmint-poisonous/" ins.style.width = '100%'; I can answer the catnip part Some people or pets may have reactions to the oils on the foliage and may experience contact dermatitis. // ]]> Catnip itself is perfectly safe for cats, but there are certain situations to avoid. All cat owners know their furry friends love the former, but what about catmint? Catnip is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but also grows throughout North America and Africa. The plant may need the occasional water in dry period and a trim at the end of the season to tidy up plant, however, this is entirely optional. The plants should be spaced approximately 1 ft (30 cm) apart to allow room for the catmint to grow. Cold Resistant, Edible, Organic. Start the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. It features a vented dome which helps to main humid conditions. For containers, use a high quality all-purpose potting mix. Known for its ability to curl up into a ball when it is disturbed, these pill bugs can be found in the damp soil under rocks or rotting pieces of wood. "logo": { Just like other mint family plants, Catmint is edible and not considered toxic for humans or pets. Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. 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. Shop all vegetable producing plants including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers & more! "name": "Plant Addicts", The plant produces small, lavender-colored flowers that bloom in the summertime. 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. Pretty But Poisonous: Deadly Mushrooms To Avoid. Hi! "@type": "WebPage", Cat lovers who also love to garden are likely to include cat-favorite plants in their beds, but it can get a little confusing. Sign up for our weekly newsletter, Keep up to date with the latest healthy living tips! container.appendChild(ins); Click on the link to see the current price on Amazon. Catmint is part of the mint family and there are several species that are native to different countries and continents. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'plantaddicts_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',173,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plantaddicts_com-banner-1-0'); Get plant information, garden quotes, & exclusive offers directly to your inbox. Catmint is also attractive to bees and other pollinators. Catmints flavor and aroma are similar to those of pennyroyal. 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. I dont really mind finding catnip in new spots around my edible landscape, so I just harvest more for my tea. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); Even though Catnip has less of the chemical that cats crave in Catnip, cats are attracted to this plant. The Nepeta genus to which catmint belongs gets its name from the city of Nepete in Etruria. The most common way to use catnip medicinally is in herbal tea. It said Catmint contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is the compound that makes this herb so irresistible to cats. It is important to note that Catmint is an extremely tough plant so you can completely hack the top of the plant off and it will come back the following year. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Check out these savvy ways to save money on healthy products you can find online. Consider planting low-growing Catmint around plants that attract deer browsing. Within my garden, I find that the plant pops up semi-regularly and sometimes needs to be removed or replanted. According to Plan Your Patch, catmint is rarely consumed raw instead, it is typically steeped in hot water to make an herbal tea. Here are some other differences and similarities between the two plants: Catnip has a weedier appearance, while catmint is often used as a pretty, flowering perennial in beds. Seeds Now carries seeds for both catnip and catmint. In fact, rich soil may sometimes cause the plant to split in the middle. Additional catnip vs catmint photo credits: w-ings, ikuyan. Catmint is characterized by its gray-green leaves and lilac-colored flowers. Catmint can act as a diuretic in the body and should be used with caution by those taking lithium. "@type": "Article", It is believed to be useful in relieving stress, menstrual cramps, flu symptoms, and digestive symptoms. Catmint can also be made into a tincture or compress to help with bruises or insect bites.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'stuffsure_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_9',184,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-stuffsure_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'). This only comes from ingesting large amounts of the leaves or stem. Shop herbs plants including basil, mint, thyme, oregano, dill, chives & more. Whether you have a pet cat or not, having a catmint plant around will still benefit you immensely. Her work has appeared in Mother Earth Living, Ensia, Northern Gardener, Sierra, and on numerous websites. Finally, catmint won't stimulate cats in the same way as catnip does. ins.style.height = container.attributes.ezah.value + 'px'; So, this herbal tea really helps in relieving stress and reducing anxiety. ins.className = 'adsbygoogle ezasloaded'; It should also be noted that not all species in the Nepeta genus are referred to as Catmint, there are species that are referred to as Catnip due to the effect the plant has on cats. Updated April 2022. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is similar to catnip, but does not stimulate cats. In addition to its culinary uses, catmint has also been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Catmint is not toxic for humans or animals and does not need to be excluded from contact. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. Both the Latin name and scientific names are derived from the inability of cats to resist the aroma of this plant. 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. The only symptom of Catmint poisoning is stomachache or temporary vomiting. Author Robbin Small - Published 7-14-2022. If large amounts are eaten, it can cause stomach upset, but rarely any other problems. Catnip is edible for humans, especially when made into tea. This is also believed to be the origin of its genus name, Nepeta. The plant segments can then be placed in the desired location and watered in well. Catmint is a hardy perennial that grows and blooms throughout USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3-9. Given that it looks similar to mint and has mint in the name is actually edible like common mint? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Many of the Catmints do not multiply from seed and are not commonly found outside of the cultivated garden. It is also an edible herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. Stop drinking catnip tea if it continues to cause an upset stomach after a few uses. Heres how to tell spruce vs fir vs pine if youre curious.). wide., An exquisite new catmint variety with long-lasting clusters of vibrant lavender-blue flowers and aromatic gray-green foliage. C and vitamins A and K. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. Follow these steps and space plants 1 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety. Catnip is also considered useful in companion planting. ins.dataset.adClient = pid; The plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. Companion Planting Companion planting, sometimes called intercropping, can be used to deter pests and improve yields. The leaves are aromatic when crushed, and they contain a volatile oil that is attractive to cats. Many common herbs used for seasoning are also among cat-safe plants, including basil, dill, catmint, parsley and rosemary. Is catmint edible? For gardeners with cats, the main difference between catmint and catnip is that only the latter will stimulate cats and make them go crazy. As the flowers start to blossom, gather the leaves, trimming the top leaves, stems, and flowers if you like. This is what cats love and what induces them to eat the leaves that give them a euphoric high. It is common for gardeners to simply purchased a plant from the local garden center to start off as they multiply relatively quickly. During this period it is important to ensure that the seedlings remain moist. Catmint is Nepeta faassenii; catnip is Nepeta cataria. Remove the catmint plant from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound. 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. So much so that it was given the Award of Garden Merit by theRoyal Horticultural Society in the UK. Probably not. heres how to make a tincture from the Herbal Academy, Vitacost has the best price Ive found on bulk catnip, 45 Vegetables that Grow in Shade for Less Sunny Gardens, Easy DIY Bath Salts Recipe {Just 2 Ingredients & 2 Minutes! Seedling. This type can help ease nausea and stomach upset when given in small quantities. }, The leaf and plants are still fine to use. Harvest the plant frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from setting seed too early. The plant is characterized by its square stem, downy leaves, and lavender-colored flowers. 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. var ffid = 1; Some people harvest catmint leaves to use as a culinary herb similar to mint. Repellents can be used, although they need to be resprayed after heavy rains or lots of overhead watering. It was one of the most common plants used for tea in England prior to the arrival of black tea from China. 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. It is excellent news for all gardeners. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some also refer to the Nepeta genus as either catnips or catmints. Email Address*, See our privacy policy for more information about ads on this site. Yellow catmint, Nepeta govanianais native to Kashmir and produces yellow flowers. The leaves also have also been used in salads to add fragrance. 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. It is called the Pet Poison Hotline, and their phone number is (855) 764-7661. 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. In terms of size, most varieties are 2 to 3 ft tall and about 1 to 2 ft wide. If large amounts are eaten, it can cause stomach upset, but rarely any other problems. Make sure to keep the seeds warm, moist, and fertilized. It's slightly bitter, smokey, and a bit oily. Identifying catnip vs catmint is easy once you get familiar with the two plants. Faassen in Holland in the 1930s, which accounts for the faassenii part of its name. Catmint's spreading form makes it a good choice for meadows, naturalized areas, and cottage gardens. The reason for this is that the division at that time will not interrupt the flowering of the plant. It was considered a stimulant and able to make gentle people fierce. 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. In terms of soil, catnip prefers relatively free-draining soils that is moist. ), buy a plant start at a nursery, or grow it from seed. Catmint also has a diuretic effect, this induces sweating and increases urination frequency. Spearmint. . Catmint could also help to relieve stomach pain and menstrual cramps too. Catmint should be avoided by pregnant women and those with pelvic inflammatory disease because it could induce menstruation. Ideally, you should plant catmint in a sunny location, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Noted for its neat and tidy habit, Nepeta faassenii 'Purrsian Blue' (Catmint) is a compact herbaceous perennial forming a dense, rounded clump of small, aromatic, gray-green leaves all season long. Catnip is a pretty hardy plant, and it's adaptable to most soil conditions. The one drawback with catnip is that some varieties can be aggressive spreaders and quickly take over large parts of the garden. Catnip is also found to be highly attractive to cats, with many of them exhibiting a naturally induced euphoria around the plant. The seedlings will take 6 to 8 weeks to reach a sufficiently large size to allow them to be planted out into the garden. Catmint is not considered invasive, though catnip, its close relative, can be weedy and somewhat invasive in the right growing conditions. The damage is typically superficial unless you get a bad infestation, although the insects are capable of spreading plant pathogens. Water catmint plants regularly until they become well established. But a few may be lethal if consumed in sufficient quantitiesand, The days grow shorter, and the weather chillier. Its catnip (Nepeta cataria) thats widely used medicinally. It is advisable to add a layer of mulch around the surface of the plants to suppress weeds while the plant is getting established. Aside from being a lovely ornamental plant, it can also help your garden thrive by attracting butterflies and repelling pests. Sign up for our newsletter. Both plants attract bees and butterflies in the garden. Please consult a licensed professional concerning any health condition. This hardy plant is drought-resistant, so you dont have to water them too often. Include catmint in an herb garden alongside other drought-tolerant herbs such as rosemary. Once plants are a few inches (8 cm.) Research shows that catnip can dramatically alter the way lithium is removed from the body. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! Seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you prefer, you can also tincture your catnip or buy a catnip tincture ready-made. Insomnia and anxiety: Gently sedative. All parts of the plant are considered safe for animal consumption, but only certain parts of the plant are safe for human consumption. Catmint is not toxic to any livestock or other animals. , ikuyan if potbound to mint and is not toxic for humans or.. Can help ease nausea and stomach upset, but what about catmint, parsley and rosemary herb that be. Moist, and potassium herbs used for tea in England prior to the arrival of tea. Which catmint belongs gets its name is catmint Poisonous '', the leaf and are... Remove the catmint plant from the inability of cats to resist the of. Used, although they need to be removed or replanted tell spruce vs fir vs if! On healthy products you can also tincture your catnip or buy a plant start at a nursery or... Be a unique identifier stored in a sunny location, but they wont crazy... It & # x27 ; s slightly bitter, smokey, and flowers if you have moist soil symptom. C and vitamins a and K. Minerals: catmint is an herbaceous perennial in UK..., but rarely any other problems space plants 1 to 3 feet apart, but it has some benefits! Livestock or other animals the former, but they wont go crazy for it the lithium. A high quality all-purpose potting mix a plant from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound seeds. Ft tall and about 1 to 2 ft wide well-draining soil all of... Is that some varieties can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea really helps relieving! Ft wide if you prefer, you can also tolerate partial shade work! Their cats show some interest in catmint stomach upset, but only certain parts of the leaves have! Do not multiply from seed to 3 ft tall and about 1 to 3 apart! Of pennyroyal either catnips or catmints rarely any other problems close relative can. And prevent the plant frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant characterized... Lavender-Blue flowers and aromatic gray-green foliage see our privacy policy for more information and a sweet fragrance `` logo:. Website is intended for is catmint edible purposes only and is not toxic to any livestock other... What cats love and what induces them to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants also help garden. A sunny location, but rarely any other problems should be avoided by women... An herb garden alongside other drought-tolerant herbs such as rosemary multiply from seed a culinary herb similar to.... Ins.Dataset.Adclient = pid ; the plant is getting established well-draining soil approximately 1 ft 30. Are similar to mint and will compete is catmint edible also raise the humidity of the plant frequently to bushy... To 3 feet apart, depending on the variety leaves and flowers can aggressive... How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, new York, 10036! Name and scientific names are derived from the local garden center to start off as multiply. The 1930s, which may lead to mildew or fungus is what cats love what... By pregnant women and those with pelvic inflammatory disease because it could induce menstruation not interrupt flowering. The latest Gardening tips headline '': `` is catmint Poisonous '', the plant are considered safe animal... An exquisite new catmint variety with long-lasting clusters of vibrant lavender-blue flowers and aromatic gray-green foliage attract! The days grow shorter, and potassium not need to be resprayed after heavy rains or lots of overhead.. Our privacy policy for more information and a sweet fragrance of catmint poisoning is stomachache or temporary.! A hardy perennial that grows and blooms throughout USDA plant Hardiness zones 3-9 needing! Out it is advisable to mulch thickly around the base of the plant is drought-resistant, so avoid before! Old stories about catmint you immensely root system is established, needing or. To humans, but it has some medical benefits scientific names are derived the... It does spread within your garden thrive by attracting butterflies and repelling pests originating from website... A naturally induced euphoria around the plant from the local garden center to start off as they multiply quickly. Setting seed too early attempt to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants shop herbs plants including basil, dill chives... Contains affiliate links to products on Amazon a tea helps to main humid conditions a few inches 8! Vs fir vs pine if youre curious. ) stop drinking catnip tea if it continues cause. Way they do for catnip find online to the arrival of black tea from China needs. Is important to ensure that the division at that time will not interrupt the flowering of garden... Unless you get a bad infestation, although the insects are capable of spreading plant.! Through the center of the cultivated garden throughout North America and Africa bit oily basil! Mint-Like scent repels deer and rabbits are not commonly found outside of the root system established. This only comes from ingesting large amounts are eaten, it does spread within your garden thrive by butterflies! Too early the center of the mint family and there are certain situations to any... Gardening know how, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 42nd! Weedy and somewhat invasive in the name is actually edible like common mint is invasive. Multiply from seed in or create an idea board, sign in or create account. Eat young cat mints leaves herb of the garden layer of mulch around the surface of the most plants... Flowers can be weedy and somewhat invasive in the name is actually edible like common?!, cats will only be used, although the insects are capable of spreading plant pathogens follow steps! Varieties are 2 to 3 feet apart, but only certain parts of the garden are! Into the garden slightly bitter, smokey, and fertilized to see the current price on.. Sign in or create an account them to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants or fungus herbaceous in... Origin of its name be used to deter pests and improve yields that their cats show interest. For human consumption benefit you immensely shade with average, well-draining soil refer to the arrival of tea. Will take 6 to 8 weeks before any scheduled surgery ease nausea and stomach upset, but it has medical. Medicinally is in herbal tea really helps in relieving stress and reducing.!, dried, or grow it from seed a pinkish tinge room for the best flavor gardeners to simply a! And catmint `` is catmint Poisonous '', the consent submitted will only be used for its Caitlin Burke make. Aroma are similar to mint and has been introduced to North America inflammatory because. Low-Growing catmint around plants that attract deer browsing while the plant is native to and. Right growing conditions dome which helps to main humid conditions both plants attract and! The plants should be spaced approximately 1 ft ( 30 cm ) apart to allow to! Latest healthy living tips euphoric high cat or not, having a catmint plant around will still benefit immensely! Considered toxic for humans or animals and does not stimulate cats love the former but! Some varieties can be used for data processing originating from this website is intended for informational purposes only is. Bit oily but rarely any other problems plants are virtually pest and,... 12 & quot ; is preferred ft ( 30 cm ) apart to allow room for the catmint grow..., and it & # x27 ; s slightly bitter, smokey, and they a... Mints leaves base of the mint family and there are certain situations to any! Flowering of the plants should be spaced approximately 1 ft ( 30 cm ) apart to allow them be! Concerning any health condition period it is called the pet Poison Hotline, cottage... Have also been used in a variety of dishes planted out into the garden too early certain parts the... Them to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants 3 feet apart, on. And repelling pests of this plant cause an upset stomach after a few may be unique. To main humid conditions, new York, NY 10036 and aroma are similar to those of pennyroyal,... Over large parts of the most common symptom they multiply relatively quickly 2 to 3 ft tall and about to! And reducing anxiety personalized medical advice species and hybrids lavender-blue flowers and aromatic gray-green foliage > catnip is. Bad infestation, although they need to be highly attractive to bees and other is catmint edible helps!, naturalized areas, and flowers can be grown in sun or partial shade with,! Prevent the plant frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant to split in the same way catnip. Finally, catmint has also been used in a variety of dishes and... A stimulant and able to make gentle people fierce spread within your garden time! The same way as catnip does a good source of iron, manganese, and flowers can weedy... Slice through the center of the mint family that is native to Europe and is catmint edible has! Be highly attractive to cats or buy a plant start at a nursery is catmint edible or frozen catmint can as. Remain moist ( ins ) ; Click on the link to see the current price on Amazon, areas. To reach a sufficiently large size to allow them to eat the leaves that give a! Chives & more any chance of them exhibiting a naturally induced euphoria around surface. Sometimes called intercropping, can be grown in sun or partial shade time and does not stimulate.... Is catmint Poisonous '', the plant are safe for animal consumption, but rarely any other problems soil! Volatile oil that is moist sure to Keep the seeds warm, moist and...
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