Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a long-lasting ornamental perennial known for its soft grey-green foliage and clusters of pale lavender-white flowers. Ideal for herb borders, pollinator gardens, and bonsai-style container growing, it forms attractive upright clumps that are easy to maintain. Its summer flowers draw bees and beneficial insects, adding ecological support to decorative garden designs.
Features
• Hardy perennial herb with gray-green foliage
• Pale flower clusters support bees & beneficial pollinators
• Excellent in borders, rock gardens, and decorative containers
• Can be shaped in bonsai-style miniature pots
• Non-GMO Nepeta cataria seed variety
• Very low-maintenance once established
Specifications
• Common Name: Catnip
• Scientific Name: Nepeta cataria
• Plant Type: Perennial herb
• USDA Zones: 3–9
• Height: 18–36 inches
• Spread: 18–30 inches
• Growth Habit: Upright branching clump
• Foliage: Gray-green scalloped leaves
• Flower Color: Lavender-white spikes
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Water Needs: Low to moderate
• Drought Tolerance: High once established
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees & beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–4 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before frost or direct sow in spring.
• Lightly cover seeds—about 1/8 inch deep.
• Keep soil lightly moist; germination takes 7–21 days at 65–75°F.
• Transplant after frost into full sun or partial shade.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established.
• Trim early growth to encourage bushier form.
• For bonsai-style pots, prune regularly to maintain compact size.