Name: Catnip

Botanical Name: Nepeta cataria

Zone: 3-9

Soil: Well drained.

Exposure: Full Sun to Partial shade.

Bloom Time and Color: White or near white blooms in mid summer to early fall.

Description: Perennial. Cats love catnip! They love to nip the leaves. They love to roll in it. And you will too. A member of the Mint family, Catnip is a strong smelling, aromatic herb. It has clusters of white or purplish-blue flowers atop toothy, heart shaped leaves. The leaves have a lemon-mint flavor and scent. It grows two to three feet. It is easy to grow, and doesn't need alot of attention.

Care: Allow plenty of space for your catnip to grow.

Harvesting: Harvest leaves as the flowers begin to bloom. Cut off the leaves, stems and flowers. They can be used fresh, dried, or frozen. Spread leaves out to dry in a cool and ventilated area