How to Grow Catmint in the Garden

A close up horizontal image of a butterfly feeding on a Nepeta flower pictured in bright sunshine on a soft focus background.

Nepeta species are aromatic flowering perennials in the mint family including catnip, catmint, and others. These hardy and easy to grow plants attract bees and butterflies while also repelling unwanted pests. And don’t forget their long history of medicinal use! Read on to learn all about growing Nepeta plants.

How to Grow Catnip in the Garden

A close up horizontal image of a curious gray cat investigating catnip (Nepeta cataria) plants growing in the garden.

Catnip is an easy-to-grow herbaceous perennial in the mint family that is useful for humans and kittens alike. This plant is famous both for use as a soothing medicinal tea as well as an intoxicating herb to entice our feline friends. Continue reading for a detailed guide to growing and using catnip

Catnip vs. Catmint – What’s the Difference?

A close up horizontal image of light blue catmint flowers growing in the garden in light sunshine pictured on a soft focus background.

Are catnip and catmint different plants? Though these herbaceous perennials in the mint family have many similarities, Nepeta cataria is a distinct species that serves a different purpose in the garden than other types of Nepeta. Learn how to differentiate between these commonly mixed up herbs in this guide. Read more now.

Grow Faassen’s Catmint for Durable Summer Color

Purple lavender flowers of Fassen's Catmint in bloom.

Faassen’s catmint is a mounded perennial that’s drought heat and tolerant, and unlike its cousin catnip, it doesn’t drive kitties crazy. You’ll love the gray-green foliage and lavender-blue flowers, not to mention the butterflies and hummingbirds this plant attracts. Learn how to grow it now with our in-depth guide!