Herb of The Day – Catnip

 

Herb of The Day – Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Cats are not the only species attracted by this member of the mint family, people have enjoyed it for over 2000 years of history and undoubtedly prior to any written mention of the plant specifically.  Thanks to European colonization the plant is now distributed world-wide.  Tea made from the dried leaves and flowering heads has been suggested as a cure for most everything at some point in its history.  It does in fact work well as a digestive aid, and a sleeping aid.  Often catnip is mixed with peppermint, spearmint, and chamomile for a pleasant night cap tea.  Leaves sewn in a cloth bag also makes a great toy for your cat.  Fresh leaves, in moderation, can also make a trendy addition to a tossed salad.  Catnip more than any other mint species I have cultivated is invasive so care should be taken in choosing a site.  It does grow well in containers, but must be overwintered in a garden bed. It’s in ground planting site is sufficient in all but the harshest of winters.  Perennial