Catnip

Catnip is well known for the way its leaves and blossoms, either dried or fresh, are relished by cats. The intoxicating effect is reserved only for felines, but a tea made from the leaves has long been used by humans.  Many people wonder what is the difference between catnip and catmint. While basically considered the same plant 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 easily grown and if the plant is pinched back as soon as the first flowers appear, many harvests of leaves can be obtained.