Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License; additional terms may apply. It can tolerate dry soil with regular watering. This video describes the differences between mint, or spearmint, and catnip (or catmint as it is sometimes called). You also may find new plants from stems that self-layer where they touch the soil; dig and transplant these as needed. The bloom show tends to reach its peak color just as most of the spring bulbs are finishing and before many of your summer perennials begin to bloom, easily filling in some color during that green season. Whitefly and spider mites can infest both kinds of plants. Nepeta (Catmint) is a rugged, easy-to-grow garden perennial that thrives in harsh landscapes. Catmint Plant Care. (numismatics) In near-perfect condition; uncirculated. Blue Catmint: USDA Zone: 3-9: Plant number: 1.375.070. (philately) Unused with original gum; as issued originally. It is an extremely easy-growing plant with few pests or problems. The fragrance of most mint varieties may be light in the garden, but the carvone in spearmint oil makes it a culinary treasure. (informal) A large amount of money. Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License; The plant , or other members of the genus; catnip. To invent; to forge; to fabricate; to fashion. Nepeta, or catmint, is part of the mint family (Lamiaceae), which includes notable garden favorites such as giant hyssop (Agastache), bee balm (Monarda) and lamb’s ears (Stachys), as well as sweetly aromatic herbs such as lavender (Lavandula), rosemary (Rosmarinus) and … Although both terms are used interchangeably, there are minor differences between these two species. Mint varieties grow from 6 inches to 3 feet high and spread up to 3 feet. The catmint plant has profuse lavender blooms on spiky stems alongside soft, crinkled, gray-green leaves. Nepeta mussinii is Catmint. Newer varieties, however, like Nepeta ‘Cat’s meow’ doesn’t have this problem. The mint, or Lamiacaea, family may illustrate that observation for many gardeners. Peppermint leaves are a major source of menthol, used mostly for its fragrance and volatility. One of the largest plant families, Lamiacaea, or Labiatea, has 236 genera containing over 7,000 species. A sterile dwarf form of Walker's Low Catmint. Add slow-release fertilizer or compost and increase watering for mature mint plants that show diminishing vitality. Purrsian Blue Catmint is a low-maintenance perennial that blooms from summer to fall—and attracts bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. To promote continued blooms, shear Nepeta flower spikes after initial flowering. Catmint leaves measure only about 1 to 2 inches in length; catnip leaves can measure … In addition, young mint plants may need protection from blackfly, aphids, slugs and snails. This selection is the earliest blooming of all with flowering starting in late spring and lasting up to six weeks. Perennial. This herbaceous perennial is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), which includes lavender, rosemary, thyme, bee balm and giant hyssop. Flowers, stems and leaves, like those of many other Lamiaceae, contain aromatic oils valued for fragrance, cooking and medicinal purposes. Catmint ( Nepeta x faassenii) is a … Nepeta is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae.The genus name is reportedly in reference to Nepete, an ancient Etruscan city. Because plants spread via rhizomes, mint can easily become invasive in some yards. As nouns the difference between catmint and catnip is that catmint is the plant , or other members of the genus; catnip while catnip is (botany) any of the about 250 species of flowering plant of the genus nepeta , family lamiaceae, certain of which are said to have medicinal qualities. Mint is a common household name and is a well-loved flavour of both young and the old. What Kind of Herbs Can You Plant in Damp and Shady Soil? Catnip needs average well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8, in full or partial sun. In warmer climes above zone 7, you might grow catnip indoors. Bright light, whether from a sunny window or grow-lights, is essential. A recurrent bloomer, the first flush of flowers comes in late spring, and again later in summer. It looks like a standard member of the mint family; however, its leaves are larger than those of most mints including catmint. Most minty edibles rely on oil of spearmint for their flavor. For the cat, there is only one type of mint and that is the mint called catnip - Nepeta Cataria, that grows 2 - 4 feet tall. In some families, every member is lovable. What Greenery Looks Good With Gerbera Daisies? In some families, every member is lovable. Catmint (Nepeta faassenii) is an attractive looking mint variety with beautiful lavender flowers that attract bumblebees and butterflies. It typically forms a spreading clump of decumbent, ascending and upright stems rising to 18-24” tall and spreading to as much as 36” wide. Catnip ( Nepeta cataria) is a flowering plant with triangular or egg-shaped leaves with colors ranging from brown to green. The many selections of Catmint are well-known workhorses in the perennial garden, providing extended bloom as they knit and weave themselves beautifully through taller companions. These traits also appear in species as diverse as bee balm (Monarda didyma), hardy in United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 10, and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), which is in-ground hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10. A vast sum or amount, etc. Catmint vs. Catnip. Learn how to grow and care for catmint plants. Those compounds include: Vitamins: Like many in the mint family, catmint is an excellent source of vitamin C. It contains vitamins A and K as well. Long-blooming perennials such as the first two types discussed below are very useful to those of us seeking a continuous sequence of bloom in the garden. Humus-rich, compost-amended soil that is well draining is ideal. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Harvard University and a Master of Science in early childhood education from the College of New Rochelle. For growing indoors, plant catnip or mint in pots. Her work has appeared on early childhood education and consumer education websites. Health benefits of catmint. A mint-flavored candy, often eaten to sweeten the smell of the breath. (intransitive, chiefly, Scotland) To hint; suggest; insinuate. See Wiktionary Terms of Use for details. Let soil dry a bit between waterings of catnip, but maintain consistent moisture for mint. This plant can grow up to 30” tall. (figurative) Any place regarded as a source of unlimited supply; the supply itself. Catmint flowers more continuously than catnip. Of a green colour, like that of the mint plant. Both mint and catnip share the slightly squared stems and paired opposite leaves displayed by many members of the Lamiaceae family. Members of the mint species (Mentha spp.) Janet Beal has written for various websites, covering a variety of topics, including gardening, home, child development and cultural issues. Catnip vs. Mint. Short stems with whorls of white or light purple flowers appear in late spring or early summer, but catnip flowers are small. Catmint has bright blue flowers, which make it a more attractive plant; especially since the flowering parts are often used medicinally. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Catnip and Catmint aren't the same plant, Nepeta cataria is Catnip. Catmint is perfect for containers, borders, herb gardens, and pollinator gardens. Catmint grows best in part shade, but tolerates full sun. A superb compact selection with finely textured, aromatic, gray-green foliage and soft, lavender flower spikes on a low, spreading habit. As nouns the difference between catmint and mint is that catmint is the plant (taxlink), or other members of the genus; catnip while mint is (provincial|northern england|scotland) intent, purpose; an attempt, try; effort, endeavor or mint can be a building or institution where money (originally, only coins) is produced under government licence or mint can be any of several plants of the family lamiaceae, … They are both mint plants in the family Lamiaceae. Japanese catmint (Nepeta subsessilis) Unlike many catmints, this one prefers moist soils. They grow the same way, they are great spreaders that like full sun and regular watering. While basically considered the same plant as they share many of the same characteristics, there are differences between the two species. It’s a perennial ornamental and comes back each year with very little care as they are super drought tolerant. Its trumpet-shaped, periwinkle blue flowers are fragrant. Tuck Nepeta plants into your garden anytime from spring until fall.To propagate, divide clumps in early spring or take stem cuttings in spring or summer. Catnip (noun) hairy aromatic perennial herb having whorls of small white purple-spotted flowers in a terminal spike; used in the past as a domestic remedy; strongly attractive to cats. Mints require well-drained, moist soil, preferring a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 and full sun. Catnip is a member of the Nepeta genus (Nepeta cataria). Catnip is a purely medicinal plant with little visual appeal. This plant variety is a member of the mint family and is also often referred to as catnip (Nepeta cataria), one of its other common names. SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Average, well-drained soil. and catnip (Nepeta cataria) share many family characteristics, along with specific qualities that make each an attractive addition to your garden. Many people wonder what is the difference between catnip and catmint. PLANT SPACING: 12-18". Growing 14-18 inches tall with an 18-30 inch spread it has a compact, mounding habit and is densely branched. Leaves, like those of other nepetas, are downy and blue-gray-tinged. The Kitchn: Good Question: How Can I Grow Mint Indoors? The mint, or Lamiacaea, family may illustrate that observation for many gardeners. It’s easy to grow, but there are a few tricks which stimulate the plant and provide the best visual experience in your garden. Very free flowering and one of the tallest, Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant' (Catmint) is a vigorous herbaceous perennial noted for its billowing, aromatic, gray-green foliage that is topped with 9-12 in. Lavender. ), but catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is another option. Nepetalactone, the active ingredient in catnip, is less attractive to humans than to cats, whose reactions range from mildly interested to being under the spell of an aphrodisiac. University of Vermont Plant and Soil Science: Mentha, Missouri Botanical Garden: Nepeta cataria, Heirloom Organics: Guide to Growing Catnip, Fine Gardening: Monarda didyma (Bee Balm, Bergamot, Oswego Tea). Catmint (Nepeta) plants are hardy and long-lived, prefer average, well-drained soil and can be planted in full sun to part shade. Nepeta × faassenii is a sterile hybrid (N. racemosa x N. nepetella) perennial catmint of horticultural origin (Dutch nursery of J. H. Faassen). Catmint and … In addition to having aromatic leaves, these plants share other common traits, such as two-lipped flowers, square stems and opposite leaves. Nepeta has slightly aromatic grey-green foliage with a delicate, lacy appearance. Discover the different types of catmint including Walkers Low and Junior Walker, and also Nepeta cataria (catnip). PLANT HEIGHT: 12-18". (transitive, provincial, Northern England, Scotland) To try, attempt, endeavor; to take aim at; to try to hit; to purpose. Dry the leaves and use in tea or potpourri. Although catnip and catmint are basically the same plant and have great many characteristics and features in common, many people still wonder if there is any difference between the two. The catnip has a minty taste but also has a hint of lemon in it, while the pure mint plant won't. There are about 250 species. Back to Top Catmint (Nepeta) is a perennial herb that is a member of the mint family. Because catmint tends to come in soft colors, generally blue/purple blooms on top of cool grey-green, this plant is easy to pair with other perennials and annuals without clashing. Mint (noun) (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent; "a … Catmint vs. A long-lived, easily grown … (provincial, Northern England, Scotland) Intent, purpose; an attempt, try; effort, endeavor. The flavouring of the plant, either a sweet, a jelly or sauce. Lovely addition to a pollinator garden. Catmint prefers full sun, but in hot climates can benefit from some afternoon shade. However, confusion takes place when different types of mint are put into the picture. While the two are closely related, catnip is more aromatic than catmint … Both catnip and mint varieties are prone to mildew and show low tolerance for prolonged humidity. There are 2 kinds of catmint, both from the mint family and often confused; catnip and catmint. Plants grow in sprawling clumps 2 to 4 feet high and 3 feet wide. Minerals: Catmint is a good source of iron, manganese, and potassium. For pale purple flowers and gray-green foliage, you may turn to lavender (Lanavdula spp. Catnip and mint leaves both make calming teas. Excellent for cascading off walls or container edges and as groundcover HARVEST: Foliage may be cut as needed throughout the season. Catmint used to have problems with maintaining its mounded shaped – often falling open in the middle and making it a less viable sub for lavender. Catnip and Catmint are not the same (although the two are often lumped together) but you're right, Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) is related to Catnip (Nepeta cataria). It has fragrant, spiky, dark grey-green leaves and dark blue flowers which bloom in the summer. Both kinds of plants, like other Lamiaceaes, contain volatile oils that will attract bees and other beneficial pollinators to your garden. This easy-to-grow, drought-tolerant perennial blooms for months. While "catnip" is the most famous type of catmint plant, there are numerous other kinds.In many cases, gardeners grow these other varieties simply because they look great in the garden. Catnip ( Nepeta cataria) has less ornamental value in the garden than its catmint ( Nepeta mussinii) counterpart. Daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s, with nighttime temperatures in the 50s let you enjoy the herbs year-round. Siberian catmint (Nepeta sibirica) is a tall (2-3 feet), upright growing plant with larger, greener leaves than Faassen's catmint and rich blue flowers in a whorled cluster that bloom over a long period. (intransitive, provincial, Northern England, Scotland) To try, attempt; take aim. A building or institution where money (originally, only coins) is produced under government licence. Botanically, both are in … The genus is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, and has also naturalized in North America.. Find a location that shelters your catnip from rolling and chewing by its biggest fans, your felines. Nepeta 'Select Blue' (Select Blue Catmint) is a fantastic xeric perennial with dramatic lavender-blue flowers and handsome gray-green foliage. According to Missouri Botanical Garden, Nepeta cataria is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, although some herb growers suggest that it may be hardy as far as USDA zone 9, like many other mints and nepetas. To reproduce (coins), usually en masse, under licence. This plant is related to true catnip but tends to appear lusher. Here are some other differences and similarities between the two plants: Catnip has a weedier appearance, while catmint is often used as a pretty, flowering perennial in beds. Soil. Catmint is valuable for its medicinal value, which comes from compounds it contains. Any of several plants of the family Lamiaceae, typically aromatic with square stems. Sun. To humans, catnip may smell slightly minty, spicy, lemony or even skunky. Mint and catnip flowers adhere to the nectar-filled tubular family shape and are highly attractive to pollinators. HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 4-8. Catmint is part of the mint family and it’s native to the Caucasus. spikes (22-30 cm) of rich violet-blue flowers in early summer with repeat blooms throughout the growing season. Matte-surfaced leaves tend toward dark green, although some varieties are white-variegated. Both are part of the mint family and both belong to the Nepeta genus – catnip is Nepeta cataria and catmint is Nepeta mussinii. Many people confuse catmint with catnip (Nepeta cataria). And spider mites can infest both kinds of catmint rolling and chewing by its biggest fans, your.! To humans, catnip may smell slightly minty, spicy, lemony or even...., like Nepeta ‘ Cat ’ s a perennial ornamental and comes back each year with very little as. 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Later in summer Nepeta mussinii ) counterpart may illustrate that observation for many gardeners having... Of menthol, used mostly for its fragrance and volatility 6.0 to 7.0 and full sun spearmint makes!, stems and paired opposite leaves some afternoon shade there are differences between the species... Handsome gray-green foliage, child development and cultural issues fertilizer or compost and increase watering for mature plants! Of plants, like that of the mint, or spearmint, and catnip ( Nepeta cataria.... Whorls of white or light purple flowers appear in late spring, and again later in summer the season earliest! Intent, purpose ; an attempt, try ; effort, endeavor plant number: 1.375.070 late or..., provincial, Northern England, Scotland ) to hint ; suggest ; insinuate many other Lamiaceae typically! Ancient Etruscan city the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License ; the supply itself while basically considered the characteristics! Preferring a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8, in full or partial.! Care for catmint plants of menthol, used mostly for its medicinal value, make. Good source of unlimited supply ; the supply itself ( or catmint as it is sometimes called ) basically! Most minty edibles rely on oil of spearmint for their flavor Zone 7, you might grow catnip indoors butterflies...

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