Nepeta cataria “Catnip”
Nepeta cataria NEP-eh-tuh
Catnip: Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a perennial herb in the mint family famous for its intoxicating effect on many cats. The leaves are heart-shaped or triangular, gray-green in color, and covered in fine, downy hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. It is an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. It is also drought- and deer-tolerant.
Zone 3
Full to Part Sun
Height: 24-36″/Spread: 24-36″
Summer – Early Fall
Size Available: 1201
Description
Nepeta cataria NEP-eh-tuh
Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a perennial herb in the mint family famous for its intoxicating effect on many cats, though it also has traditional uses for humans. Catnip’s effects on felines are due to the chemical compound nepetalactone, a volatile oil found in the leaves and stems. The nepetalactone binds to a cat’s olfactory receptors, mimicking a cat pheromone and sending a signal to the brain that triggers a temporary behavioral change. Most cats who are sensitive to catnip (a genetic trait present in about 50-70% of cats) may become excited, playful, or appear to experience a “high”. Common behaviors include:
- Rolling and rubbing their heads on the plant.
- Purring, drooling, and vocalizing.
- Jumping and sometimes playful aggression.
- The effects are not harmful and typically last for about 10–15 minutes. Catnip is safe for cats to eat in small amounts, but ingesting a large quantity could cause digestive upset. Most kittens won’t show a reaction until they are six months to one year old.
