Home Weed ID Publications Dictionary Links FAQs Login About us		Plant Description: Name: catnip Scientific Name: Nepeta cataria Family: Labiatae Type: Broadleaf Lifecycle: Biennial Habit: This erect perennial can grow up to 5 ft in height, and flowers from June to September. It propagates both through seeds, and also by spreading roots. Leaves: The leaves grow on square, branched stems. The 1 to 2 1/2 inch, leaves are hairy on both surfaces and silvery underneath. Leaves are heart shaped and have jagged edges. Both stems and leaves are covered with white hairs and when crushed, leaves smell strongly of mint. Leaf Arrangement: Opposite Characteristics: This plant contains the chemical nepetalactone, which is concentrated in special glands on the leaf surfaces. It is this chemical that attracts cats to this plant. Catnip is also used in tea as a sedative, or put in salads. The strong odor and white hairs are identification characteristics. Flower Seed Head: Flowers occur in thick spikes at the ends of stems and branches. Individual flowers are whitish with lavender spots. Seed Fruit: Fruit is dark brown with short hairs and 1.3 to 1.5 mm long. The small, black seeds are less than 1 mm in diameter. Where Found: This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but has naturalized in North America. It prefers full sun, and dry soil in both waste and cultivated land. Control Options Related Plants Terms and Definitions Additional Images:
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