Catnip, Heirloom Herb Seeds — Calming Mint-Family Tea Herb, Pollinator Magnet, Insect Repellent, Beloved by Cats (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a hardy perennial herb in the mint family — greenish-gray foliage with small white blooms spotted purple or pink. Earthy aroma with a touch of thyme and oregano; dried leaves used for calming tea or as a stimulant for cats. Plants reach 24–36 inches tall, spread 18–24 inches wide, attract pollinators, and repel pest insects. Heat and drought tolerant; reseeds easily. 0.01g / 200+ seeds per packet. 85 days to maturity. Perennial in Zones 3–9.

• Botanical name: Nepeta cataria
• Days to maturity: 85 days
• Days to germination: 10–15 days
• Flowers: Small bilabiate blooms — white, spotted with purple or pink
• Foliage: Greenish-gray, jagged, sage-colored leaves 1–3 inches long; fuzzy texture
• Aroma: Earthy, touch of thyme/oregano; mint-like when dried
• Plant height: 24–36 inches; width 18–24 inches
• Soil: Any loamy to sandy; well-draining
• Temperature: 60–80°F growing; 68–72°F germination
• Sowing depth: Surface sow indoors; just cover outdoors
• Plant spacing: 12–18 inches; rows 18–24 inches
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Climate tolerance: Heat and drought tolerant
• Packet size: 0.01g / 200+ seeds
• USDA Zones: 3–9 (perennial); annual in other zones
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO, perennial
• Caution: Not recommended for children; avoid during pregnancy

For Cats — Nature’s Feline Stimulant

Nepetalactone compounds in the leaves trigger a temporary 5–15 minute stimulant response in about 50–70% of cats (the response is hereditary). Fresh catnip attracts cats to the garden; dried catnip is easy to make at home — harvest stalks, bundle, and hang upside down to air-dry. Once dry, crumble leaves onto scratching posts, beds, or toys. Consider planting in a protected spot or container if you want to keep the plant intact.

For Humans — Calming Tea & Culinary Uses

Dried leaves make a pleasant calming tea — steep 1 tablespoon in hot water per serving. Traditionally used as a mild sedative and digestive aid. Fresh young leaves can be added to salads, soups, or savory dishes. Not recommended for children or during pregnancy.

Insect Repellent & Pollinator Attractor

Catnip repels many pest insects — nepetalactone may be more effective than DEET against mosquitoes — while attracting bees and butterflies to its flowers. Plant near vegetables to deter pests and support pollinators. Deadhead after bloom to control reseeding.

Growing Notes

Start indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting, surface sowing seeds (needs light to germinate). Or direct sow outdoors, just covering seeds lightly. Germination in 10–15 days at 68–72°F. Thin to 12–18 inches in full sun to shade in well-draining soil. Once established, drought tolerant — allow soil to dry between waterings. Deadhead after bloom to reduce spreading. Mulch roots in harsh winters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn’t my cat respond to catnip?

The catnip response is hereditary — approximately 50–70% of cats carry the gene. Kittens under 6 months and some adults simply don’t respond, which is completely normal.

How do I dry catnip for my cat?

Harvest stalks, bundle, and hang upside down in a warm, dry spot out of direct sunlight for 1–2 weeks. Strip leaves and store in an airtight container away from light and heat; potency lasts 6–12 months.

Will catnip take over my garden?

It can — deadhead spent flowers promptly to prevent self-sowing. Growing in containers keeps it contained. Cut plants back by half after the first bloom to encourage a second flowering and reduce seed set.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.