Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the mint family, native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It is widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand, and North America. The common name catmint can also refer to the genus as a whole.

Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a common herb that is a member of the mint family. It’s a plant that’s easy to grow in North America and has light-green foliage with lavender flowers. Catnip leaves have also been used to make tea, and the flowers are said to relieve coughs. It’s also a main ingredient in some natural bug sprays.

May 21, 2021 · Nepeta cataria, or more commonly known as catnip is a plant native to parts of Europe and Asia that is well known for its cat-attracting (and craze-inducing) properties among domestic cats and...

Jul 5, 2022 · Catnip contains nepetalactone, an essential oil found in the catnip plant. Here's how it affects your cat and why it makes them feel so good.

Jan 19, 2024 · Catnip—also known by its scientific name Nepeta cataria—is a member of the mint family. "The active compound in catnip, nepetalactone, triggers a response in some cats, inducing behaviors like rolling, rubbing, purring, and heightened playfulness," says Colleen Lambo, DVM, veterinarian with The Vets.

May 28, 2023 · Catnip, catmint, catwort, field balm -- it doesn't matter what you call it. Lions, tigers, panthers, and your common domestic tabby just can't seem to get enough of this fragrant herb.

Turns out, catnip isn't just a one-size-fits-all treat. From how it works to when to avoid it, this little herb has more layers than your cat’s obsession with your laptop keyboard.

Dec 21, 2024 · catnip, (Nepeta cataria), herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), noted for its aromatic leaves, which are particularly exciting to cats. Catnip is commonly grown by cat owners for their pets, and the dried leaves are often used as a stuffing for cat playthings.

Catnip has masses of beautiful spikes of lightly-scented shell pink flowers rising above the foliage from early to late summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. Its attractive small fragrant pointy leaves remain grayish green in color throughout the season.

Sep 12, 2022 · Nearly two-thirds of cats have a hereditary trait that attracts them to catnip. Learn more about its effects on cats, safe catnip toys, and how to grow it!