Genus guide
Nepeta — 20 species
Part of the Mint & sage family family (Lamiaceae)
Nepeta is a sprawling genus of aromatic perennials ranging from the familiar Nepeta cataria (catnip) to ornamental border plants such as N. racemosa and the popular hybrid 'Six Hills Giant'. All thrive in full sun and very well-drained, even poor soil; once established they are notably drought tolerant and dislike over-watering. Toxicity varies across the genus: N. cataria is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats (causing vomiting and diarrhea), while many ornamental catmints appear to pose little risk to dogs. Check each species before buying, and keep cats away from catnip in particular.
All Nepeta species we cover
- Big-Flowered Catmint
- Camphor Catmint
- Catmint 'Walker's Low'
- Catnip
- Garden Catmint
- Garden Catmint
- Japanese Catmint
- Lemon Catnip
- Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant'
- Nepeta 'Walker's Low'
- Nepeta racemosa 'Blue Wonder'
- Nepeta sibirica 'Souvenir d'André Chaudron'
- Nerved Catmint
- Persian Catmint
- Raceme catmint
- Six Hills Giant Catmint
- Tuberous Catmint
- Turkish Catmint
- Walker's Low Catmint
- Walker's Low Catmint
Nepeta — frequently asked questions
Are Nepeta plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Nepeta are pet-safe. Of the 20 Nepeta species we cover, 12 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 8 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Nepeta plants need?
Most Nepeta do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Nepeta easy to care for?
Some Nepeta suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Nepeta varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 20 Nepeta species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Nepeta, the rest follow closely.
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