What's Growing
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Catnip is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is sometimes called catmints. With heart shaped, gray-greenish leaves, catnip flowers can range from blue, purple, and white. They can grow to approximately 2-3 feet tall. Highly aromatic, catnip stimulates sensory neurons in cats that attract them to the herb.
Harvesting
You can harvest catnip when the plant is about 6 inches or taller. To encourage growth, harvest full stems. If you want to dry the herb, bundle the stem in bunches and hang them upside down to air-dry.
Uses
Besides being cats’ favorite herb, catnip has been thought to have medicinal properties, aiding in ailments like insomnia, headaches, and anxiety. Dried catnip leaves make for a soothing tea that can calm upset stomaches and a stressed mind.
