Nepeta cataria

Catnip is a perennial aromatic, medicinal and ornamental plant that grows up to 30cm (12in) tall. It is cultivated for its foliage with a cumin flavour and a pronounced scent of menthol, which has the particularity of repelling insects and aphids. It also looks great in ornamental gardens, for example at the base of roses. Sow from March to April for a harvest 3 months later.

Originally from the Caucasus and belonging to the mint family, Catnip, also known as Nepeta, Catmint or Catnip, is considered a "weed" in the United States. It was used in the Middle Ages to fight fevers, colds, and flu. Catnip has relaxing, sedative, and antispasmodic properties. It is a powerful insect repellent.

Easy to grow and hardy down to -15 °C, Catnip will appreciate being planted in light, fresh, rich, and well-drained soil in a sunny spot. It can tolerate dry, poor, and rocky soils, but its flowering will be less abundant.

In heavy soils, it is recommended to add coarse sand and gravel to improve drainage.

Untreated or "NT" seeds come from conventionally grown plants (often with the use of pesticides), but they undergo no treatment after harvest. These seeds are allowed in organic farming when organic seeds are out of stock.

Harvest and storage: Catnip leaves can be harvested from July onwards. They should be dried in a dry and well-ventilated place.

Gardener's tip: Are cats fond of your freshly sown beds? Try to distract them! Did you know that they love Catnip so much that they roll around in it languidly? Indeed, its calming and euphoric effects trigger sometimes surprising reactions in feline companions, but don't worry, the effects wear off quite quickly and no serious addiction has ever been observed.