How to Grow Cataria
Cataria
Nepeta cataria
herbCataria, commonly known as catnip, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family known for its intoxicating effect on cats. It produces small lavender, pink, or white flowers and aromatic, heart-shaped leaves that contain nepetalactone, the compound responsible for its characteristic effects on felines. The plant is hardy, low-maintenance, and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Cataria in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Cataria timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Cataria
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Cataria
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Cataria dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; extremely cold hardy and tolerates hot summers
Sign up free to see if Cataria grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Cataria timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-10 days; small green cotyledons emerge. True leaves develop by week 2-3.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with soft, aromatic leaves. Stems become more robust and branching increases.
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Ensure consistent watering and good drainage. No fertilizer needed if soil is decent.
Flowering
6-8 weeksFlower spikes emerge at the top of stems, bearing small tubular flowers in shades of lavender, pink, or white. Flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming if desired. Allow some flowers to remain for seed production or wildlife value.
Seed Production
3-4 weeksFlowers fade and small seed pods develop. Seeds mature and dry on the plant, turning brown.
Leave flowering stems standing if you want self-seeding. Harvest seed heads before they shatter completely.
Dormancy/Winter
Winter monthsFoliage dies back in late fall/winter in colder zones. In mild zones, plant may remain semi-evergreen.
Cut back dead stems to ground level in late fall. Mulch in zones 3-4 for extra protection. Plant will regrow from roots in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; row covers on young plants
-
Increase humidity; spray with water or neem oil
-
Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
-
Improve air circulation; apply sulfur dust or fungicide; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Herbal Tea
CulinaryFresh or dried catnip leaves can be brewed into a soothing herbal tea that is caffeine-free and mildly calming for humans. It has a gentle minty flavor and has been used in traditional beverages for centuries. [source]
Digestive & Sleep Support
MedicinalTraditional herbalists use catnip tea to support digestion, reduce fever, and promote relaxation. The plant contains compounds that may have mild sedative properties in humans, though it's better known for its stimulating effect on cats. [source]
Cat Enrichment
HouseholdFresh or dried catnip is widely used to stimulate and entertain cats. The nepetalactone compound induces euphoria and playfulness in about 70% of cats, making it valuable for feline behavioral enrichment and exercise. [source]
Dried Herb Crafts
CraftDried catnip leaves are used in crafts such as homemade cat toys, sachets, and herbal arrangements. The dried foliage retains its potency and aroma for months when stored properly. [source]
Pollinator Garden Plant
WildlifeCatnip flowers attract pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. It supports beneficial insect populations while providing ornamental value. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves once the plant is established (after 6-8 weeks). Cut stems just above leaf nodes in the morning after dew dries. For maximum potency, harvest when flowers are just beginning to open. Cut plant back to 6-8 inches from the ground; it will regrow. Dry harvested material in bundles or on screens for later use. Can harvest multiple times per growing season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Only about 70% of cats respond to catnip; the trait is genetic. Kittens under 8 weeks and senior cats may show no interest.
- 🌱 Nepetalactone, the active compound in catnip, is also used as a natural insecticide and repellent for insects like mosquitoes and cockroaches.
- 🌱 Catnip has been used in human herbal medicine for over 2,000 years and was a popular flavoring for ale before hops became standard in the Middle Ages.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Cataria planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Cataria seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Cataria timeline →