What Are the Different Types of Catnip Plant

If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably heard of catnip. This herb has a long history of use as a natural sedative and is known for its ability to make cats go crazy with excitement. Catnip belongs to the mint family, and there are several different types of catnip plants that you can grow in your garden or buy at the store. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the different types of catnip and how they differ from one another.

Regular Catnip (Nepeta Cataria)

The most common type of catnip is Nepeta cataria, or regular catnip. This variety is native to Europe and Asia but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America. Regular catnip is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and has small, fragrant leaves and white or light purple flowers that bloom in the summer.

Lemon Catnip (Nepeta Cataria Citriodora)

Lemon catnip is a type of catnip that has a distinct lemon scent. It is also known as Nepeta cataria citriodora and is a popular variety among cat owners. Like regular catnip, lemon catnip is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has small, light green leaves and white or light purple flowers that bloom in the summer.

Japanese Catnip (Schizonepeta Tenuifolia)

Japanese catnip, also known as schizonepeta tenuifolia, is a type of catnip that is native to China, Japan, and Korea. Unlike regular catnip, Japanese catnip is an annual plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and has small, fragrant leaves and pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer. This variety of catnip is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat colds, fevers, and other ailments.

Catmint (Nepeta Mussinii)

Catmint, or Nepeta mussinii, is a type of catnip that is native to Iran, Turkey, and the Caucasus. It is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and has small, fragrant leaves and lavender-blue flowers that bloom in early summer. Catmint is often used as a landscaping plant and is popular among gardeners because of its attractive foliage and long-lasting blooms.

Horehound (Marrubium Vulgare)

Horehound, or marrubium vulgare, is a type of catnip that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Europe but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America. Horehound is a hardy perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and has woolly leaves and small white or pink flowers that bloom in late summer. While horehound is not as popular among cat owners as other types of catnip, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine to treat coughs and other respiratory ailments.

FAQ

Can all cats enjoy catnip?

No, not all cats are affected by catnip. In fact, around 30% of cats are not affected at all.

Is catnip safe for cats?

Yes, catnip is safe for cats to consume in small amounts. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption of catnip can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

How can I give my cat catnip?

You can give your cat fresh or dried catnip leaves or buy toys that are filled with catnip. You can also grow catnip in your garden and let your cat enjoy it fresh.

How often can I give my cat catnip?

It’s recommended that you limit your cat’s exposure to catnip to once every two weeks to prevent overstimulation.

Can humans use catnip?

Yes, humans can use catnip as a natural sedative. However, it’s important to note that the effects of catnip on humans are much milder than they are on cats.