Nepeta mussinii

Nepeta mussinii, also known as Catmint, is an aromatic herb commonly grown in the garden. It produces clusters of lavender-blue flowers amid mounds of gray-green foliage. This easy-to-grow perennial is great for mass planting or edging and suitable near vegetables as an insect deterrent — especially for aphids. Can be grown in sun or partial shade with average, well-draining soil. Catmint is even heat and drought-tolerant, making them excellent plants for dry garden areas. Grows 30cm high and 45cm wide.

While considered the same plant as catnip, as they share many of the same characteristics, there are differences between the two species. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) has less ornamental value in the garden than its catmint (Nepeta mussinii) counterpart. Catnip is also found to be highly attractive to cats, with many of them exhibiting a naturally induced euphoria around the plant. They may nibble on it or even roll around in the foliage. This type is most suitable for “cat-friendly” gardens. If you don’t want your garden overrun with felines, plant catmint instead, which is much less attractive to them.