Nepeta cataria - Catnip

Catnip is an aromatic, herbaceous perennial with soft grey-green foliage and spikes of small white flowers marked with purple. Best known for its attraction to cats, it is also a valuable garden plant, offering a long flowering season and excellent support for pollinating insects.

• Exposure: Grows well in sheltered to moderately exposed locations and has good wind tolerance once established. Moderately tolerant of coastal conditions, particularly in well-drained soils.
• Size: Approximately 60–100 cm high × 45–90 cm spread.
• Soil: Well-drained soil; adaptable to sandy, chalky, loamy, and moderately fertile soils. Tolerates dry conditions once established.
• Sun: Full sun to light partial shade.
• Flowering Time: June to September.
• Uses: Culinary and medicinal herb; widely grown as a sensory plant due to its effect on many cats.
• Wildlife Benefits: Highly attractive to bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, providing a reliable nectar source throughout summer.