Catnip Seeds — Nepeta cataria

The Ultimate Gift for Cats — and a Beautiful Garden Herb

Every cat owner knows the magic of catnip — and now you can grow your own from seed. Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip or catmint, is a vigorous, bushy perennial herb with soft, grey-green heart-shaped leaves that release a distinctive minty-herbal fragrance when brushed or crushed. In summer it produces upright spikes of small white flowers with delicate purple spotting, which are irresistible to bees and butterflies as well as to cats. A wonderfully useful and attractive plant for any garden.

Why Gardeners Love It

• 🐱 Beloved by cats — the nepetalactone in the leaves triggers a euphoric response in most cats; grow your own for a constant supply
• 🐝 Excellent pollinator plant — the white flower spikes are a magnet for bees and butterflies throughout summer
• 🌿 Attractive garden herb — soft grey-green foliage and pretty white flower spikes make it a lovely border plant in its own right
• 🌱 Perennial — once established, catnip returns reliably year after year
• 🍜 Herbal uses — traditionally used as a calming herbal tea and insect repellent
• 🌾 Drought tolerant once established — a tough, low-maintenance plant that thrives with minimal attention

Growing Tips for New Zealand

Catnip seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification before sowing — place seeds in a damp paper towel in the fridge for 1–2 weeks before planting to improve germination rates. Sow in trays in late winter or spring, pressing seeds lightly onto the surface as they need light to germinate. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle. Catnip prefers a sunny, well-drained position and will grow vigorously once established. It can spread freely, so consider planting in a contained area if you prefer a tidy garden. Cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush. Note: protect young seedlings from cats until established!

What's in the Packet

Each packet contains 10 seeds of Catnip (Nepeta cataria), with growing instructions included.