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Catnip growing in a garden
Perennial herb

Catnip plant profile

Nepeta cataria

A perennial herb for full sun.

Last updated .

When to plant

When to plant Catnip

Plant catnip in spring from seed, stem-tip cuttings, or division, cutting plants back as growth resumes (Illinois). It is a hardy perennial in the mint family that spreads readily, so site it where spread is acceptable.

The calendar shows this cited seasonal window as an approximate band. It does not convert the season into frost-adjusted dates.

Open Catnip in my garden calendar

Shows the source-backed planting season, not frost-adjusted dates.

Growing conditions

Sun
Full sun
Lifecycle
Perennial

Common problems

Watch for these

Also watch for: invasive spreading, legginess.

Next steps

Continue with Catnip

Evidence trail

Evidence behind this profile

Original extension and institutional publications behind the planting, care, and safety facts on this page.

  1. Catnip (Herb Gardening)

    University of Illinois Extension. Supports general reference. Checked 2026-06-18.

  2. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Catnip (Nepeta cataria) entry

    ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Supports pet-safety verdicts for dogs and cats. Checked 2026-07-18.