Catmint is prized for its toughness and drought-tolerance. Those that do are more likely to roll around in the leaves than to eat them as they do with catnip. Catmint plays well with others. The deer are repelled by the smell and the leaf texture. Fortunately, if a dog does decide to eat a few leaves or flowers, it is not toxic. As a result of these characteristics, the plant rarely requires fertilizer. Among other benefits, nepetalactone has a calming and relaxing effect. "url": "https://plantaddicts.com/authors/robbin-small/", Catmint is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 2 feet (0.61 m) in height and 3 feet (0.91 m) in width. Catmint is drought tolerant and thrives on neglect, making it good for beginning gardeners, low-maintenance landscapes and water-wise borders. Cooperative Extension, which staffs local offices in all 100 counties and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This metastudy covers numerous Nepeta species (including several catmints) and reports that many had high concentrations of antioxidants and compounds with antimicrobial and other properties. During extreme heat or prolonged dry spells, water as needed. 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. C and vitamins A and K. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. Please see our privacy policy for more details. Catmint can be used fresh, dried, or frozen for both culinary and herbal use. "alumniOf": [{ To compare a range of different Catmint varieties click here. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Before Romes rise, the country of Etruria was the center of Etruscan civilization. The plant's nicknames, catnip, catmint or catwort are no doubt inspired by cat's well-known taste for the plants. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Catmint is valuable for its medicinal value, which comes from compounds it contains. 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! Plants respond well to shearing to promote rebloom. This plant is edible and it even has some medicinal benefits for us too. The extra-long bloom time and ability to thrive in different growing conditions make catmint a versatile addition to any landscape. Catmint's spreading form makes it a good choice for meadows, naturalized areas, and cottage gardens. It even has a mild sedative effect which can relieve insomnia and allow you to sleep better. Catmint uses also include the addition to fresh salads or cooked food. As a result, this herb is often used to treat fever and water retention. or so apart. Catmint is easy to propagate by division. Consuming large quantities of catmint can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Many common herbs used for seasoning are also among cat-safe plants, including basil, dill, catmint, parsley and rosemary. The Nepeta genus is included within the Lamiaceae family which is also known as the mint family. Sometimes catnip is called catmint and vice versa. Sign up for our newsletter. I dry a lot of it for tea as it's calming, helping ease stress, anxiety and insomnia - it's perfect for nighttime tea. The cultivar got its name for the owner of the garden in which Ms. Taylor discovered it. Large amounts of Catmint need to be eaten for a dog to have much of a reaction. The leaves can also be cooked and used as a flavoring for soups, stews, vegetables, or meat dishes. They can be planted indoors as early as 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Nepeta Common name: Catmint These dependable perennials produce a profusion of usually lavender-blue flowers over a long season from late-spring to late-summer. Catmint uses also include the addition to fresh salads or cooked food. Lavender or Catmint What Makes the Perfect Purple Edge? 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.. Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. It was one of the most common plants used for tea in England prior to the arrival of black tea from China. Even so, the catmint and catnip names often get used interchangeably as though they referred to a single herb. The tough plants are easy to grow and low maintenance, use them in borders with other perennials or as an informal edging as an alternative to lavender. Disclaimer: Im a health enthusiast, not a medical professional. Remove and crumble leaves and add to cat toys. This plant has very few problems. } The best way to tell if it's edible is by seeing how it smells. You can use catmint tea as a sleep aid or as a tea to treat anxiety. At the same time, it will protect your garden from harmful insects like ants and flea beetles as well as other pests like rats and mice. The leaf and plants are still fine to use. About SPICEographyMaster your spice rack at SPICEography. Catmint does require lots of space to grow and are aggressive growers, crowding out other plants if given the chance. Catmint is most often grown by seed or through division. The small, oval leaves are grey-green in color and have a strong minty scent. This only comes from ingesting large amounts of the leaves or stem. Many people wonder what is the difference between catnip and catmint. There are a variety of different catmint plants, all of which are members of the mint family. The plant is also quite tolerant of cold conditions and is hardy down to zone 3 in most cases. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. "@context": "https://schema.org", It is also resistant to attacks from wildlife such as deer or rabbits who do not seem interested in eating it. As a garden plant, catmint acts as a repellent for certain insects, including aphids and squash bugs. Both are part of the mint family and both belong to the Nepeta genus catnip is Nepeta cataria and catmint is Nepeta mussinii. "@type": "Organization", 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. Catmints flowers are usually purple, and the leaf shape and growth pattern differ from catnip, as you can see in the photos below. However, there are distinct differences. Author Robbin Small - Published 7-14-2022. Both are totally fine for cats in moderation, but cats are usually more attracted to catnip. The plant is characterized by its square stem, downy leaves, and lavender-colored flowers. This American variety of wild mint is edible and can be eaten either fresh or cooked into dishes that add a beautiful aroma and pleasant taste. Catmint is a wonderful addition to any garden, regardless of whether you wish to make your garden feline-friendly or not. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. Order mixed annual combinations ready to plant in your containers. This study of 72 patients with depression given Nepeta menthoides suggests it may have use as an anti-depressant. It can also help prevent re-seeding. Do you grow catmint or catnip? [amazon_link asins=B00TZANB0W,B004HQ3PKK template=ProductCarousel store=spiceography-20 marketplace=US link_id=547a598a-0f08-11e9-8af9-d9e608341f1f]. Heres how to tell spruce vs fir vs pine if youre curious.). The leaves are aromatic when crushed, and they contain a volatile oil that is attractive to cats. It also makes your garden more cat-friendly. Suitable for small spaces, containers, or as edging along pathways, borders and beds. Scientifically speaking, catnip tastes like ass. But a few may be lethal if consumed in sufficient quantitiesand, The days grow shorter, and the weather chillier. Calamint is a member of the mint family, but it doesn't spread by runners, so it usually remains well behaved in the garden. I love the advantages of growing catmint in the perennial garden, and I may try a little catmint in my tea this season, but Im going to stick with the better-studied catnip for regular medicinal use. Please consult a licensed professional concerning any health condition. It is also an edible herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. Their rich flavor and texture make them versatile additions to recipes, either as a side. Spacing. Remove the rootball from the soil, and divide the clump with a shovel or sharp knife into portions containing roots. Additional catnip vs catmint photo credits: w-ings, ikuyan. Updated April 2022. // ]]> They can be added to salad greens, used as a garnish on soup or fish, or used to flavor vinegars and oils. Catnip has a more compelling scent, while catmint has more ornamental value in the landscape. Nepeta cataria is indeed edible for humans. The leaves of the catmint plant have a minty, peppery flavor that can be used fresh or dried in a number of different dishes. The plant will spread but is not difficult to control. Siberian Catmint, Nepeta sibirica,is a variety that is more suited to cold locations, and will survive down to zone 3. It is an excellent low-maintenance plant that requires very little work are really suits a gardener that wants their garden to look good without doing much work. Flowers and leaves are both edible. var ins = document.createElement('ins'); Backfill the hole with soil and tamp down slightly to remove air pockets. An annual application of pelletized manure in early spring is usually more than enough. Catmint can thrive in poor soil. The flowers can also be used as a garnish. Use a low-growing catmint variety as an edging plant along a pathway for color all summer long. The seeds or divisions of the catmint plant are planted in spring. Find plants you love and create idea boards for all your projects. Despite being known for its effects on felines, cats arent the only ones who can enjoy catmint. Catmint is generally recognized as safe to use in adults, but there are a few drugs that do not interact well with this herb. But is it invasive like mint and will it take over the garden? 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. A nursery in England would eventually offer it for sale in the late 1980s. One way to avoid any seed disturbance is to water the tray from below by the tray sitting it in water for a few minutes. Growth Stage. The only symptom of Catmint poisoning is stomachache or temporary vomiting. Water well. Please consult them for more information and a licensed professional for personalized recommendations. Given that it looks similar to mint and has mint in the name is actually edible like common mint? However, the catmint will still do very well in lower quality soil, it is generally quite hardy and drought-resistant. As the flowers start to blossom, gather the leaves, trimming the top leaves, stems, and flowers if you like. Just like other mint family plants, Catmint is edible and not considered toxic for humans or pets. { I found one article claiming Nepeta x faassenii was edible and another saying Nepeta racemosa was, but neither author cited any sources and may have just been repeating information about catnip where it had been called by its common name catmint. Catmint can be grown in sun or partial shade with average, well-draining soil. Catmint flowers more continuously than catnip. Find out where you fall in the USDA Hardiness Zones database. Typically Catmint is so bushy and full that deer browsing will not be noticable. Therefore, surround it with a border edging or use containers (bottomless if in garden). Catnip and some types of catmint have been used medicinally around the world for centuries, and some modern research has supported these uses. Ive seen it on occasion at our local nursery and at farm stands selling potted herbs. Include catmint in an herb garden alongside other drought-tolerant herbs such as rosemary. Catmint is part of the mint family and there are several species that are native to different countries and continents. Blue catmint is an herbaceous perennial, ground cover native to Europe and in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Catmint is excellent for attracting pollinators to a garden and gardeners often plant it for this purpose. lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId + '-asloaded'), { attributes: true }); The flowers of the catmint plant are also edible and can be added to salads or used as a garnish. Once the Catmint gets going you will find that the plant does is a good job of smoothing any competing weeds. Check out this blog post to learn more about this versatile herb. Catmint is an absolute asset in the garden. Catmint, also known as Nepeta cataria is a herb that is part of the mint family. Additionally, I am a bit confused with the fact that catmint would be loved by cats, when it is actually catnip they love. Plant catmint alongside other plants with similar cultural needs of full sun and good drainage. However, as you might expect Catmints are also relatively easy to grow from seed. The catmint plant is also edible, and can be used for culinary purposes like other kitchen herbs. Edible Herbs Catmint If you have ever seen catmint with its bountiful green foliage and clusters of small purple flowers, you may have mistaken it for lavender at first glance. 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. from a lack of consistent watering, but some damage may be . "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"], In terms of ongoing maintenance there is very little to do for the plant. Will I start having stray cats in my yard if I decide to plant cat mint? var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-stuffsure_com-medrectangle-3-0'; They wont go as crazy for catmint as they would for catnip. According to old stories about catmint, cats will only attempt to eat bruised or otherwise damaged plants. It grows in a clumping mound and can reach up to three feet in height. }, Plant in a curbside strip in combination with other drought-tolerant perennials such as lavender, salvia, agastache, sedums and ornamental grasses. Pruning: Some varieties of catmint may become leggy or flop open at the center. Do I Have Catmint Or Catnip: Are Catnip And Catmint The Same Plant, Catmint Companion Plants: Tips On Planting Next To Catmint Herbs, Cat-Friendly Garden Ideas: Tips For Creating A Cat-Friendly Garden, Common Flowering Quince Diseases And Pests, These Weeds That Spread By Seed Can Sprout After Years, 3 Common Gardening Mistakes That Harm The Environment, Portulaca Flower: Tips For Portulaca Care, Home & Garden Marketplace: Advertiser Info. 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. If you live in a cold climate and are frequently growing plants from seed a heated propagation tray is a worthwhile investment as they are relatively low cost and will really help to get your seeds going in the early part of the growing season. If you dont want your garden overrun with felines, plant catmint instead, which is much less attractive to them. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid consuming catmint. Catmint is found in gardens and is favored not only for its visual appeal but also for its herbal properties. 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. Try it in your next DIY bug repellent and see what you think. Lets start with a little clarification, since catnip and catmint are so often confused. For complementary color, pair with yellow flowers that bloom at the same time: For a pollinator-friendly summer border, combine with: 2023 Proven Winners North America LLC. It is widely cultivated around the world for both its foliage and blue flowers. This overview of pharmacological uses around the world also reports that members of the Nepeta genus contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and other properties and have been used to treat malaria, chickenpox, tuberculosis, measles, as well as respiratory, digestive, and other complaints. "@type": "Organization", As a garden plant, catnip acts as a repellent for certain insects, including aphids and squash bugs. Even herbalists writing about these two plants often conflate them or use common names for the plants that dont distinguish between them. It produces aromatic gray-green foliage and upright flower spikes in shades of lavender-blue, pink or white. The plant produces a mass of flowers that are most commonly purple but there are also varieties that have pink, white, and yellow flowers. It works well in containers, planted along walkways, or nestled between rocks in a rock garden. 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. This plant is edible and it even has some medicinal benefits for us too. Manage Settings Before Chinese tea became popular in the U.K., the English would make tea from catmint. To dry catnip, cut full stalks and dry in the sun. } This is what cats love and what induces them to eat the leaves that give them a euphoric high. N.C. It is used to help manage stress and is also thought to alleviate physical . Irrespective of the cultivar you select the catmint will progressively spread over time this provides an opportunity to propagate the plant by division. However, due to differences in the chemical composition between Catmint and Catnip, Catmint does not have the same effect on cats. Catmint is drought tolerant once the root system is established, needing little or no supplemental water. Grow . Start the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Catmint prefers a location that gets at least 8 hours of sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. In The Green Pharmacy, renowned ethnobotanist James Duke writes that catnip may be helpful for preventing cataracts, promoting sleep, and for treating amenorrhea. When planting them out it is advisable to mulch thickly around the base of the plant to avoid any chance of them drying out. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); Its also good for respiratory problems such as cold, cough, and chest congestion. Is catmint edible for humans? Catmint is part of the mint family and has a light fragrance that wafts when the foliage is brushed or heated in the summer sun. Cats Pajamas (Nepeta hybrid) is a dwarf variety with brilliant indigo-blue flowers along the entire length of the stems. ins.style.minWidth = container.attributes.ezaw.value + 'px'; This use aligns with the Cherokee use of catnip as an abortifacient, so its probably best to avoid catnip in pregnancy. Profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and more. . Catmint is an edible plant that is most commonly used as a medicinal herbal tea rather than being eaten directly. The catmint herb is easy to grow. 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. Additionally, catmint has had an extensive history of being a household herbal remedy. That said, in large quantities, this . }, 12 Uses for Lemon Balm, a Delicious Medicinal Herb. Dried catnip makes for a mintier and more pleasant tea if you want to try it on its own, without other herbs. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. The one drawback with catnip is that some varieties can be aggressive spreaders and quickly take over large parts of the garden. At the ending of each growing season, they can be cut back hard in order to reshape the plant and get it ready for next year. 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. This type can help ease nausea and stomach upset when given in small quantities. Professional Growing Information. Heres how to use catmint in your garden. The leaves can be added to salads, soups, or stews for flavor. If you want to keep your catnip under control, cut flowers off and use or dry them before they have a chance to set seed. Once plants are a few inches (8 cm.) and wondered whether that plant in your garden might wind up in your teapot? Your email address will not be published. Ground Cinnamon Vs. Cinnamon Stick How Do They Compare. This will promote new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. Remove the catmint plant from the nursery pot and tease out roots if potbound. They should be planted at least 12 to 16 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. Content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide personalized medical advice. Heres more on catmint cultivars and growing tips. "datePublished": "2022-07-14", The plants should be spaced approximately 1 ft (30 cm) apart to allow room for the catmint to grow. Check out these savvy ways to save money on healthy products you can find online. I found one study in PubMed that included catmint among the edible flowers it examined, suggesting that indeed catmint is also edible. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has less ornamental value in the garden than its catmint (Nepeta mussinii) counterpart. At this stage, the plants will have typically reached a height of 4 inches or so. Just like lavender, catmint can be used to cover the bare "limbs" of rose bushes. Catmint. Whats A Good Italian Seasoning Substitute? Alternatively, you can also eat young cat mints leaves. Your email address will not be published. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems though it can be a bit weedy. The flavor of wild violets is mild, not overwhelming so you can eat a whole bunch at one time. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is similar to catnip, but does not stimulate cats. Spearmint. It is also an edible herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. It. Catmint is a close relative of catnip, a herb that holds a strong appeal for cats. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. Plants will perform best in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Edibility and culinary use Despite being known for its effects on cats, cats aren't the only ones who can enjoy catmint. It has a very slight numbing effect on the tongue. Catmint tea can help with tummy troubles such as gas, indigestion, and cramping. Commonly known as the roly poly, sow bug or pill bug, the wood louse is one of only a few types of terrestrial crustaceans. Season of Interest. 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. Its also advisable to stop or limit catmint consumption during menstruation as it may make periods heavier. Lemongrass ( Cymbopogon citratus) is a tender perennial native to tropical areas of East Asia (Zones 9-11) that grows to form a large clump up to 3 feet tall in hot and humid summers. The leaves and flowers can be steeped to make a soothing herbal tea with a mild minty taste and a sweet fragrance. When growing Catmint from seeds it is best to start them off in early spring in seed trays. Be inspired with our Gardener's Idea Book and Winner's Circle newsletter. 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. 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! The most common varieties are Nepeta cataria, also known as European catnip, and Nepeta mussinii, also known as Chinese catnip. Ive been putting catnip leaves from the garden in my fresh herbal tea blends for years. Catnip leaves contain a compound called nepetalactone. Plant a low-growing variety along a rock wall, allowing it to spill over the edge. Catmint (Nepeta) Catmint repels aphids, cabbage looper, Colorado potato beetle, cucumber beetle, flea beetle, Japanese beetle, and, squash bugs. It said Catmint contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is the compound that makes this herb so irresistible to cats. "@type": "", Cats like it OK, but they wont go crazy for it the way they do for catnip. Why do cats love it? The herb is thought to have calming effects and can be brewed into a tea to help with menstrual cramps or stomach pain. Gardening. Insomnia and anxiety: Gently sedative. container.style.maxWidth = container.style.minWidth + 'px'; Catmint isn't just a pretty face in the garden, it's an herb that can be used medicinally for a wide variety of ailments from arthritis to menstrual cramps. Stop drinking catnip tea if it continues to cause an upset stomach after a few uses. . The plant spreads rapidly by runners and can become invasive if not controlled. Vitacost has the best price Ive found on bulk catnip, and their frequent sales make saving on herbs, pantry staples, and body care so much more affordable. Water catmint plants regularly until they become well established. So, this herbal tea really helps in relieving stress and reducing anxiety. Description. Catmint is usually grown from seed and sown in the garden during spring, spaced 12" apart. You've come to the right place! Spearmint is found in many pet products to help reduce bad breath. Edibility and culinary use of Catmint Despite being known for its effects on felines, cats aren't the only ones who can enjoy catmint. Catmint is a hardy perennial that grows and blooms throughout USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3-9. Over time, deer can become used to the smell of repellents; consider rotating brands and types to maintain effectiveness. Leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, raw leaves are nice and crunchy with a slightly mucilaginous texture. Identifying catnip vs catmint is easy once you get familiar with the two plants. Harvest the plant frequently to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from setting seed too early. Plants grow into a broad spreading mound, making this a good choice for mass plantings, containers and border edging. NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to Start, How to Make Vinegar from Scratch {Homemade Vinegar 2 Ways}, 35+ Best Spinach Companion Plants {Plus 2 to Avoid} . container.appendChild(ins); Get more ideas for growing catmint . Catmint ( Nepeta mussinii ) is an aromatic perennial herb that is best known for its clusters of lavender blue flowers, often with subtle touches of the gorgeous violet color. The damage is typically superficial unless you get a bad infestation, although the insects are capable of spreading plant pathogens. The genus of Nepeta grows in different regions throughout Europe and Asia, though its precise origin is not known. The small white or pale lavender blooms make a good substitute for baby's breath. Unlike catnip, catmint does not usually provide an intense buzz for kitties. Lavender is more commonly grown for its scent and is valued for a wider range of uses. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. If you are interested in purchasing one we recommend the iPower Heating Seed Starter Germination Kit which is shown in the picture below. Meanwhile, older leaves can be used as a potherb in cooked dishes. The leaves can also be steeped to make an herbal tea.var cid = '8595788972';
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